Curettage
What is Curettage?
Gum health is an important part of overall oral health. However, over time, plaque and tartar build-up can lead to inflammation and disease of the gums. Curettage is a method used in the diagnosis and treatment of gum diseases. This procedure is performed to clean the gums, eliminate inflammation and straighten the gum pocket.
Gum Diseases and Treatment
Gum disease is characterised by inflammation and damage to the gums. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and usually presents with symptoms such as bleeding gums, redness and swelling. Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease and can cause damage to the gum tissue and bones. Curettage is an effective method in the treatment of serious gum diseases such as periodontitis.
Purpose and Methods of Curettage
The main purpose of curettage is to remove plaque and tartar accumulated in the gums, remove inflamed tissues and straighten the gum pocket. During this procedure, the dentist cleans the gums and tooth roots using a curette, a special instrument. If necessary, gum surgery can be performed to correct the pocket.
Curettage is usually performed under local anaesthesia and the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort. The procedure can usually be completed in one or more sessions, depending on the patient’s condition and needs.
Benefits of Curettage
Curettage is an effective method for maintaining gum health and treating various gum diseases. This procedure has various benefits:
1. Protecting Gum Health
Curettage provides an effective way of diagnosing and treating gum diseases. When applied in the early stages of diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis, it helps to maintain gum health and prevent its progression. In this way, problems such as inflammation and recession of the gums are prevented and gum health is maintained.
2. Removal of Inflammation
Curettage is effective in removing plaque, tartar and inflamed tissues that accumulate in the gum pocket. These deposits are one of the main causes of gum disease and can lead to serious oral health problems when left untreated. Curettage allows the gums to heal and rebuild in a healthy way.
3. Gum Pocket Correction
Gum pocket refers to the space between the gum and the tooth. In case of progression of gum diseases, these pockets can deepen and create a favourable environment for bacterial accumulation. Curettage restores gum health by cleaning and correcting the gum pocket. This helps prevent more serious complications such as gum recession and tooth loss.
These benefits of curettage play an important role in maintaining gum health and effectively treating various gum diseases.
Curettage Treatment Process
Curettage is an effective method used to diagnose and treat gum diseases. This process consists of several stages and is usually performed by a dentist or periodontist.
1. Preliminary Assessment and Diagnosis
Curettage treatment begins with an assessment of the patient’s oral health status. The dentist or periodontist carefully examines the patient’s gums and gum pockets to determine the type and severity of gum disease present. If necessary, X-ray images can be taken or other diagnostic methods can be used.
2. Curettage Procedure
Curettage is usually performed under local anaesthesia. After anaesthesia is applied, plaque, tartar and inflamed tissues accumulated in the gum pocket are removed using a curette, a special tool placed under the gums. Gum surgery can be performed if necessary to correct gum pockets. The patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
3. Aftercare
After curettage, the dentist or periodontist will give the patient instructions on post-treatment care. These instructions usually include oral hygiene habits such as brushing, flossing, using mouthwash and attending regular dental visits. Following post-treatment care instructions can speed up the healing process and increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
The curettage treatment process provides an effective way to maintain gum health and treat gum diseases. This procedure can help the patient regain gum health and maintain oral health.
For whom is curettage treatment suitable?
Curettage treatment is suitable for treating various gum diseases and maintaining gum health. In particular, curettage treatment may be recommended in the following cases:
1. People at Risk of Gum Diseases
People at risk of gum disease may benefit from curettage treatment. Risk factors for gum disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, systemic diseases such as diabetes, hormonal changes, genetic factors and certain medications. Those with such risk factors may consider curettage treatment to maintain gum health and treat gum disease.
2. People with Gum Inflammation
Gingivitis or gingivitis is a mild inflammation of the gums and is usually characterised by symptoms such as redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums. People with gingivitis may be suitable candidates for curettage treatment to remove plaque and tartar accumulated in the gums and restore gum health. Gingivitis diagnosed and treated at an early stage can prevent the development of more serious gum diseases.
Curettage treatment can be an effective option for treating gum diseases and maintaining gum health. However, the appropriate treatment options for each patient may differ. Therefore, after a preliminary evaluation and diagnosis with a dentist or periodontist, the most appropriate treatment plan for the patient’s condition should be determined.
Frequently asked questions about curettage
Some of the frequently asked questions about curettage treatment are as follows:
1. Is curettage painful?
Curettage is usually performed under local anaesthesia and the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort. However, slight discomfort or pressure may be felt during the treatment. After the procedure, there may be mild pain or tenderness, but this usually subsides within a few days.
2. Recovery Process after Curettage
The healing process after curettage may vary depending on the intensity of the treatment and the patient’s health status. Generally, there may be mild swelling, bleeding and pain after treatment. Your dentist or periodontist can make recommendations to speed up the healing process. Regular dental hygiene practice and dental check-ups after treatment can support the healing process.
3. How much does curettage cost?
The cost of curettage can vary depending on many factors. These include the complexity of the treatment, the general health of the patient, the techniques used and the geographical location of your clinic. The cost of treatment is usually determined by your dentist or periodontist and is communicated to the patient during treatment planning.
You can contact our dentist for more information about curettage treatment or to get clear information about the cost of treatment.
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Key Takeaways
- Success Rate: 85–92% pocket depth reduction in moderate periodontitis
- Expected Longevity: Long-term with proper maintenance (3-6 month recall visits)
- Cost in Antalya: 150 – 400 EUR per quadrant
- Savings vs. Europe/US: 60–70% less than UK/Germany/US prices
What is Dental Curettage?
Dental curettage, also known as subgingival curettage, is a periodontal procedure that involves the careful removal of inflamed, infected, and necrotic soft tissue lining the inner wall of a periodontal pocket. Unlike scaling and root planing which focus on the tooth surface, curettage specifically targets the diseased gingival tissue to promote healing and reattachment of healthy tissue to the tooth root. At Stom Dental Centre in Antalya, Dr. Telman Iskender performs curettage as part of comprehensive periodontal treatment protocols for patients with moderate gum disease.
Treatment at a Glance
| Procedure Time | 30–60 minutes per quadrant |
|---|---|
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Recovery Period | 3–7 days of mild gingival tenderness |
| Success Rate | 85–92% pocket depth reduction in moderate periodontitis |
| Expected Longevity | Long-term with proper maintenance (3-6 month recall visits) |
| Cost in Antalya | 150 – 400 EUR per quadrant |
| Savings vs. Europe/US | 60–70% less than UK/Germany/US prices |
| Materials Used | Gracey curettes, ultrasonic scalers, local anesthetic, antimicrobial irrigants |
- Procedure Time
- 30–60 minutes per quadrant
- Anesthesia
- Local anesthesia
- Recovery Period
- 3–7 days of mild gingival tenderness
- Success Rate
- 85–92% pocket depth reduction in moderate periodontitis
- Expected Longevity
- Long-term with proper maintenance (3-6 month recall visits)
- Cost in Antalya
- 150 – 400 EUR per quadrant
- Savings vs. Europe/US
- 60–70% less than UK/Germany/US prices
- Materials Used
- Gracey curettes, ultrasonic scalers, local anesthetic, antimicrobial irrigants
Treatment Process: Step by Step
- Periodontal Assessment — Comprehensive probing of all tooth surfaces to measure pocket depths, assess bleeding on probing, evaluate attachment levels, and document the extent of periodontal involvement.
- Radiographic Evaluation — Periapical or panoramic radiographs to assess the pattern and extent of alveolar bone loss and identify any contributing factors such as calculus deposits or root anomalies.
- Local Anesthesia Administration — The treatment area is thoroughly numbed using local anesthetic to ensure complete patient comfort throughout the procedure.
- Scaling & Root Planing — Thorough removal of subgingival calculus and bacterial biofilm from the root surface, followed by smoothing of the root to remove embedded toxins and create a surface conducive to tissue reattachment.
- Subgingival Curettage — Using sharp Gracey curettes, the inflamed and infected soft tissue lining the periodontal pocket is carefully debrided, removing granulation tissue and the pocket epithelium.
- Irrigation & Hemostasis — The treated pockets are irrigated with an antimicrobial solution to reduce bacterial load, and gentle pressure is applied to adapt the gingival tissue against the root surface.
- Post-Operative Instructions — Detailed home care instructions are provided including gentle brushing technique, chlorhexidine rinse use, dietary modifications, and signs to watch for during the healing period.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with moderate chronic periodontitis (4-6 mm pockets) not responding to scaling alone
- Individuals with persistent gingival inflammation despite adequate home care
- Patients with bleeding on probing and false pocket formation due to gingival enlargement
- Those who wish to attempt non-surgical management before considering periodontal surgery
May Need Alternative Options
- Patients with advanced periodontitis and deep pockets (over 7 mm) requiring surgical access
- Cases with significant vertical bone defects needing regenerative procedures
- Individuals with acute periodontal abscesses requiring drainage and antibiotic therapy first
- Heavy smokers with significantly compromised healing capacity (relative contraindication)
Benefits and Considerations
Benefits
- Non-surgical approach that can effectively reduce pocket depths and bleeding
- Removes diseased tissue that harbors bacteria, promoting healthier gingival attachment
- Less invasive and more conservative than periodontal flap surgery
- Can be performed in a standard dental appointment setting
- Significantly less post-operative discomfort compared to surgical periodontal procedures
- Effective as an adjunct to scaling and root planing for enhanced treatment outcomes
Considerations
- Requires local anesthesia and involves mild post-operative tenderness for several days
- May not be sufficient for advanced periodontal disease with deep pocket depths
- Multiple treatment sessions may be needed when several quadrants are involved
- Long-term success depends on excellent home care and regular maintenance appointments
- Some patients experience temporary gingival recession as inflammation resolves and tissues heal
Frequently Asked Questions
Is curettage the same as a deep cleaning?
How painful is curettage?
How many appointments are needed for curettage?
Will my gums bleed after curettage?
How long until I see results from curettage?
Can curettage reverse gum disease?
Do I need curettage if I already had a deep cleaning?
How often should I return for maintenance after curettage?
Curettage is often the critical missing step between a standard deep cleaning and surgical intervention. For many patients with moderate periodontal disease, thorough curettage combined with meticulous scaling can achieve healing that eliminates the need for surgery entirely. The key is intervening at the right stage and committing to consistent maintenance afterward.Dr. Telman IskenderDDS, Oral Surgery Specialist, 20+ Years Experience — Stom Dental Centre, Antalya
Scientific References
- Cobb CM. Non-surgical pocket therapy: mechanical. Ann Periodontol. 1996;1(1):443-490.
- Sanz M, Herrera D, Kebschull M, et al. Treatment of stage I-III periodontitis - The EFP S3 level clinical practice guideline. J Clin Periodontol. 2020;47(Suppl 22):4-60.
- Drisko CH. Nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Periodontol 2000. 2001;25(1):77-88.
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Last reviewed: April 2026
