[Correctly performing manual supragingival scaling exercises: part of a series on basic training in periodontal diagnosis and treatment].

Cultivating general dentists who master standardized periodontal diagnosis and treatment techniques is conducive to the prevention and control of periodontal diseases, as well as to the improvement of oral health of our population. Manual supragingival scaling is the most important essential skill of periodontal initial therapy, and also the basic periodontal diagnosis and treatment technique that every general practitioner should know. This article starts from the reasons why manual supragingival scaling is important and how to standardize the teaching and training of manual supragingival scaling, unfolding the first chapter of basic periodontal diagnosis and treatment training to provide reference for promoting the standardized development of periodontology education in China.