Context: Tooth surface polishing is an integral part of periodontal therapy. Enamel and cementum show a smooth surface clinically after debridement with the naked eye, but numerous surface irregularities can be detected microscopically. Air polishing is safe and effective when used by trained professionals.
Aims: The aim of the study is to evaluate and compare the surface roughness of cementum by using an air polishing device and conventional root planing with hand instruments.
Materials and methods: A total of 45 extracted teeth stored in saline were divided into three groups randomly - Group A (conventional root planing), Group B (hand instrumentation and air polishing), and Group C (air polishing alone) - with 15 samples each. Samples were evaluated for surface roughness by using profilometer. Six parameters were checked for surface roughness.
Statistical analysis used: The data were collected, charted, and analyzed using one-way ANOVA with post hoc LSD method for pairwise comparisons.
Results: Least amount of surface roughness was achieved with Group C when compared with Group A and Group B. These differences were statistical significant (P < 0.0001).
Conclusions: Air polishing can effectively smoothen the root surface by removing surface irregularities which are produced hand/ultrasonic instruments. Profilometer can be effectively used to measure the surface roughness.
Keywords: Air polishing; profilometric analysis; scaling and root planing.
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