Current Concepts of Periodontal Therapy Utilizing Electrosurgery

Abstract

The indications for periodontal surgery are as follows: 1. Incision and drainage for acute periodontal abscesses 2. Correction of gingival contour that interferes with oral maintenance care 3. Elimination of periodontal pocket by soft tissue excision or readaptation of the treated soft tissue wall to the tooth root 4. Correction of mucogingival deformities 5. Excision of gingival enlargement that interferes with function or esthetics 6. Preparation of gingival tissues for restorative dentistry. Electrosurgery may be used as an adjunct for periodontal surgery involving soft tissue. Electrosurgery has the advantage of better control of hemorrhage, providing a cleaner operative field for visualization and better access to difficult areas of the oral cavity than afforded by the exclusive use of cold steel instruments. Clinicians must familiarize themselves with electrosurgical uses and techniques for periodontics, otherwise accidental injury can occur. The procedure best suited for electrosurgery is the gingivectomy where detailed contours and physiologic architecture are desired. Electrosurgery is not a panacea for cold steel periodontal surgical instrumentation, but when readily available, it can alleviate excessive stress for the clinician who has taken the time and opportunity to prepare himself with its use.