PMPR

Professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR)

Professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) is a term that describes the control of dental plaque biofilm and calculus and the management of the crown and root surface during periodontal care. It was previously described by terms including scale and polish, supra- and subgingival scaling, supragingival mechanical biofilm control, root planing, root surface debridement, scaling and curettage.

Supragingival PMPR

In this guidance, the cleaning of supragingival tooth surfaces is termed supragingival professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR). This targeted intervention aims to remove accessible plaque biofilm and calculus deposits from the crown of the tooth. This is carried out in Step 1 of treatment.

Subgingival PMPR

In this guidance, the cleaning of subgingival tooth surfaces is termed subgingival professional mechanical plaque removal (PMPR) or, in some instances, subgingival instrumentation. This targeted intervention aims to remove plaque biofilm, endotoxin and calculus from the root surface of the tooth. This is generally carried out in Step 2 of treatment. However, where subgingival calculus is readily accessible and removable, it can be removed during Step 1 of treatment.