What is the most likely cause of space between teeth in a patient after periodontal scaling and root planing (SRP)?

What is the most likely cause of space between teeth in a patient after periodontal scaling and root planing (SRP)?

• A. Removal of tooth structure during SRP
• B. Tooth movement is normal following SRP
• C. Reduction in edematous tissue
• D. Cause is unknown

Answer: (C)

The presence of space between teeth following periodontal scaling and root planing (SRP) is most often attributed to the reduction in edematous tissue. After SRP, patients frequently experience a decrease in inflammation and swelling of the gum tissue, which often accompanies periodontal disease. This edematous tissue can create the appearance of closer spacing between adjacent teeth. As the inflammation subsides and the tissue volume decreases, the natural contours of the periodontal tissues are restored, leading to a slight widening of the interproximal spaces. The removal of tooth structure during SRP is not a typical outcome, as the primary goal of the procedure is to clean and smooth the root surfaces to promote healing, rather than to alter the anatomy of the teeth themselves. Tooth movement being normal following SRP is less relevant in this context, as significant tooth mobility generally would not be expected from SRP alone unless there were underlying periodontal issues present prior to treatment. While the cause might appear uncertain in some cases, the primary change observed post-SRP is clearly linked to the reduction of swollen, diseased tissue rather than any tooth structure alteration or movement.

The presence of space between teeth following periodontal scaling and root planing (SRP) is most often attributed to the reduction in edematous tissue. After SRP, patients frequently experience a decrease in inflammation and swelling of the gum tissue, which often accompanies periodontal disease. This edematous tissue can create the appearance of closer spacing between adjacent teeth. As the inflammation subsides and the tissue volume decreases, the natural contours of the periodontal tissues are restored, leading to a slight widening of the interproximal spaces.

The removal of tooth structure during SRP is not a typical outcome, as the primary goal of the procedure is to clean and smooth the root surfaces to promote healing, rather than to alter the anatomy of the teeth themselves. Tooth movement being normal following SRP is less relevant in this context, as significant tooth mobility generally would not be expected from SRP alone unless there were underlying periodontal issues present prior to treatment. While the cause might appear uncertain in some cases, the primary change observed post-SRP is clearly linked to the reduction of swollen, diseased tissue rather than any tooth structure alteration or movement.