During which phase of periodontal wound healing does removal of bacteria and debris primarily occur?

Correct answer: C. Inflammatory phase

• A. Incorrect. Maturation is essentially part of remodeling; no significant bacterial clearance occurs here.
• B. Incorrect. The proliferative phase involves fibroblast migration, collagen deposition, angiogenesis and epithelialisation — it follows bacterial clearance.
• C. Correct. The inflammatory phase is when neutrophils and macrophages migrate in to phagocytose bacteria and clear necrotic debris — this must happen before tissue rebuilding can begin.
• D. Incorrect. Remodeling is the final long phase where collagen is reorganised and tensile strength increases.