Initial periodontal therapy involves procedures to mechanically remove the cause of periodontal inflammatory diseases. Gingivitis (inflammation of the soft tissue) and periodontitis (inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth) are caused by bacteria, so the goal of therapy is to minimize their number. This procedure is done with hand instruments, the so-called curettes and machine, sound and ultrasonic instruments. Depending on the progression of the disease, therapy is carried out in several visits. Deposits are removed above ("surface cleansing") and below the gingiva ("deep cleansing"). The procedure is extremely painless because mechanical therapy under the gingiva is performed under local anesthesia.
