What does soft tissue curettage involve?

Soft tissue curettage involves the debridement of periodontal pockets, which is the primary purpose of the procedure. This technique focuses on the removal of inflamed soft tissue from the periodontal pocket to help eliminate infection and promote healing. By cleaning the area, the dental hygienist aims to create a healthier environment conducive to tissue regeneration and potentially improve attachment levels of the periodontal structures.

The inclusion of this procedure in periodontal therapy is significant for managing periodontal diseases, as it helps to reduce pocket depth and ultimately improve the overall health of the periodontium. The focus is on addressing the diseased tissue rather than reshaping gums, removing calculus, or attaching soft tissue grafts, which are distinct procedures with separate goals in dental care. Thus, the answer accurately reflects the essential role of soft tissue curettage in periodontal therapy.