During closed curettage, the periodontist cleans the roots of the teeth from subgingival calculus and granulation tissue containing bacteria without incising the gums. This ensures fast healing of the area. In cases where inflammatory changes affect the entire dental arch, several consecutive visits may be needed to complete the closed curettage procedure.
Open curettage, on the other hand, is a microsurgical procedure involving incising the gums and exposing the tooth roots. This allows for thorough cleaning of deep periodontal pockets, infected tissues, and subgingival calculus. The procedure is performed when deep periodontal pockets require meticulous cleaning. Sutures are placed on the gums after the procedure and are removed approximately 10 days later.
Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia to ensure maximum patient comfort and safety.