By Jorgen Slots, DDS, DMD, PhD, MBA
Image via Wikipedia
The primary goal of periodontal therapy is to achieve a periodontal
environment free of infectious pathogens. Anti-infective periodontal
treatment includes mechanical pocket debridement (scaling and root
planing) to remove dental calculus, periodontal pocket irrigation with
potent antiseptics, systemic antibiotics for advanced disease, and
proper patient self-care.[3]
Pharmacotherapeutics targeting subgingival microorganisms can
significantly enhance treatment outcomes. However, because porous
subgingival calculus comprises a protective reservoir for bacterial
survival during anti-infective therapy, meticulous scaling and root
planing must precede antiseptic and antibiotic periodontal treatment.
The antimicrobials recommended here are readily available throughout the
world, have been used in periodontal therapy for decades, offer
significant benefits for individuals with limited financial resources,and are well accepted by most dental professionals and patients.
