What is the purpose of phase I therapy in periodontal treatment?

The primary purpose of phase I therapy, also known as non-surgical periodontal therapy, is to re-establish sulcular health. This phase focuses on nonsurgical interventions designed to eliminate the factors causing periodontal disease, including the removal of plaque, calculus, and debris from the tooth surfaces and the sulcus. By addressing these issues, phase I therapy aims to reduce inflammation and promote healing of the periodontal tissues, thus restoring the integrity of the periodontal attachment and re-establishing sulcular health.

During this phase, patients undergo procedures such as scaling and root planing, which help to eliminate pathogenic bacteria residing in the periodontal pockets. As a result, the sulcus becomes healthier, and periodontal tissues can begin to heal and regenerate. The successful outcome of phase I therapy is essential, as it determines whether surgical interventions are necessary in later phases of treatment.

Overall, the objective is to create an environment conducive to healing and to allow for the potential for periodontal regeneration or, at minimum, to stabilize periodontal disease.