What is one of the primary uses of surgical curettes?

Surgical curettes are specifically designed tools used in periodontal procedures, and one of their primary uses is the removal of granulation tissue and tenacious subgingival deposits. These instruments have a scoop-like shape and are often used in surgical settings to debride infected tissues, making them an essential part of periodontal surgery.

Granulation tissue, which can develop in response to inflammation or infection, may obstruct healing and contribute to periodontal disease if not adequately removed. The design of the surgical curette allows the clinician to effectively access and remove this tissue and persistent subgingival deposits that standard instruments may not reach. This meticulous cleaning is crucial for improving the healing environment and facilitating successful outcomes in periodontal therapy.

Other options do not align with the main functions of surgical curettes. For instance, the removal of calculus from supragingival surfaces is better suited to hand scalers and ultrasonic instruments designed specifically for that purpose. Teeth extraction typically involves other specialized instruments aimed at minimizing trauma. The placement of sutures falls under the capabilities of suture needles and scissors rather than surgical curettes. Therefore, the use of surgical curettes is most accurately associated with their role in the removal of granulation tissue and stubborn subgingival deposits.