Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

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What is the purpose of periodontal cleaning prior to the placement of an implant?

  1. To remove surface stains

  2. To ensure the site is free of disease

  3. To improve implant aesthetics

  4. To increase bone density

The correct answer is: To ensure the site is free of disease

The primary purpose of periodontal cleaning before the placement of an implant is to ensure that the surgical site is free of disease. This step is critical for several reasons. Firstly, the presence of periodontal disease, which includes conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis, can compromise the integration of the implant with the bone. By removing any infection or inflammation from the periodontal tissues, the likelihood of successful osseointegration—the process by which the implant becomes anchored in the jawbone—is significantly increased. Furthermore, a clean, healthy environment allows for optimal healing and reduces the risk of post-operative complications, such as infection or implant failure. This step not only promotes the long-term success of the implant but also enhances the overall health of the surrounding gum tissues, setting a solid foundation for the implant. While aspects like aesthetics and bone density are relevant to overall treatment, they do not encompass the critical foundational role that periodontal cleaning plays in disease prevention prior to implant placement.