Before periodontal surgery, which of the following should be controlled?

Controlling medical concerns before periodontal surgery is essential for ensuring patient safety and optimizing the surgical outcome. Patients may have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or bleeding disorders, that can complicate surgery or lead to increased risks of complications. By addressing these medical concerns prior to the procedure, healthcare professionals can take appropriate measures to manage these risks, such as adjusting medications or coordinating with the patient's physician for better control of their health conditions.

In contrast, while dental insurance may be a practical aspect of the patient's overall care, it does not directly impact the surgical procedure itself. Similarly, a patient's age could be relevant in certain contexts, but it is not as critical as managing medical conditions that affect healing and the body's response to surgery. The amount of biofilm present can also be important for planning post-operative care and maintenance, but it is typically addressed during pre-surgical assessments rather than being controlled in advance in the same way that medical concerns are. By focusing on medical issues, the dental team is prioritizing the patient's health and the likelihood of a successful surgical outcome.