What is the main goal of oral hygiene and sub-gingival debridement in periodontal treatment?

The main goal of oral hygiene and sub-gingival debridement in periodontal treatment is to remove plaque and calculus. This is crucial because plaque is a biofilm that harbors bacteria responsible for the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. The accumulation of calculus, or tartar, can further exacerbate inflammation and periodontal destruction. By effectively removing these deposits, dental professionals can reduce the bacterial load in the mouth, which in turn helps to lower inflammation, promote healing of the gum tissues, and restore periodontal health.

Although alleviating pain and preventing tooth loss are important aspects of periodontal health, the primary focus of oral hygiene and sub-gingival debridement is centered around the mechanical removal of harmful materials from tooth surfaces and periodontal pockets. This foundational step directly leads to an improvement in overall periodontal status, thereby supporting the broader goals of pain relief and prevention of tooth loss as secondary outcomes of successful treatment.