title: Assuaging postoperative effects of periodontal surgery.
abstract: Responding to the patient's uncomfortable reaction following certain periodontal surgery procedures, notably the sensitivity to temperature and touch, has been a source of frustration to both the practitioner performing the surgery as well as the patient. This case demonstrates the placement of an easily applied desensitizing paste (Duraphat) at the time of surgery, which enables the patient to avoid uncomfortable sensitivity after the dressing has been removed and allows the patient to return to good oral hygiene practices quickly, thereby avoiding new accumulation of bacteria. It also prevents further periodontal destruction, which is the purpose of the periodontal treatment. This presentation and diagrammatic explanation demonstrate placing this topical paste during the surgery, just before suturing. This particular paste is easy to place, and ease of placement is not inhibited by moisture in the affected area. The desensitizing effect for the immediate postoperative period provides comfort for the patient and helps to maintain trust between the dentist and the patient.
authors.affiliation: International Academy of Dental Facial Esthetics. drdavidlh@aol.com
authors.forename: David L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Hoexter
mesh_terms: D016301:Alveolar Bone Loss / Q000601:surgery; D016556:Crown Lengthening; D003442:Crowns; D003807:Dentin Sensitivity / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005460:Fluorides, Topical / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D009910:Oral Hygiene; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012969:Sodium Fluoride / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000187:drug effects; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D005460:Fluorides, Topical; C023807:sodium fluoride topical preparation; D012969:Sodium Fluoride