The distribution of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (endotoxin) in relation to periodontally involved root surfaces.

The distribution of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in periodontally involved root surface associated materials has been investigated using improved methods of identification and quantification. 39% of the LPS could be removed by gently washing in water for 1 min and 60% by brushing for 1 min with a slowly rotating bristle brush. The finding that 99% of the LPS can be removed by comparatively gentle procedures suggests that effective root surface debridement may be achieved by methods other than traditional hand instrumentation.