The Evian Debridement Bur facilitates two fundamental techniques in periodontal surgery--soft-tissue debridement and root planing. The bur debrides granulation and other soft tissues attached to the root or bone and removes hard deposits from root surfaces. It can also be used as an adjunct while performing crown-lengthening procedures and endodontic surgery. The bur is made with blunted flutes and, if used with a relatively light touch, will not cut into the alveolus and will not damage the tooth surface. This article reviews the use and advantages of this bur and shows its effect on the root surface at the ultrastructural level.