Abstract
Starting with the end point clearly in mind will make periodontal instrumentation easier and more efficacious. By following the EASE steps, effort is directed when and where required to achieve the goal, with reduced clinician fatigue and prevent patient discomfort. A one size fits all sites approach to periodontal debridement results in overtreatment of some sites and undertreatment of other sites as not every site requires the same amount of time or strokes. This is true for both ultrasonic and hand instruments. A minimally invasive approach performed in a targeted manner prevents ineffective use of time and effort. Intricate understanding of the instruments and the most efficient application is key to allow the EASE approach to achieve best outcomes through a simple technique of E-Evaluate, A-Access, S-Set, E-Execute. Periodontal debridement, in even severe cases, can be one of EASE rather than clinical fatigue.
Learning objectives
- Understand the effect of different approaches to periodontal debridement
- Recognise the differences presented by various instruments and sites
- Identify a patient based, site specific approach to periodontal debridement
