Photodynamic therapy and periodontal disease

Abstract

Periodontal diseases are global health concern since they affect almost 20-50% of global population and are widespread in both developed and developing countries. Periodontal disease develops as result of persistent infection caused by different periodontopathic bacteria and inflammation of tooth's supporting tissue. Traditional methods of periodontal care involve mechanical removal of biofilm and using antibiotics and antibacterial disinfectants as supplemental measure. However, in locations with restricted access, removal of plaque and decrease in quantity of pathogenic organisms may suffer. Furthermore, increased antibiotic resistance has led to development of newer therapeutic modalities, including photodynamic therapy (PDT). Application of PDT in periodontics, such as pocket debridement, gingivitis, and aggressive periodontitis, continues to develop into fully developed clinical therapeutic modality and is regarded as potential new strategy for eliminating pathogenic bacteria in periodontitis. Photosensitizer activated by light of certain wavelength in presence of O2 is used in PDT, potent laser-initiated photochemical reaction. Because traditional therapy, such as scaling and root planing, is ineffective at entirely eliminating periodontal infections, especially in deep periodontal pockets, antimicrobial PDT may be viewed as alternate therapeutic approach. Additionally, dual selectivity of PDT, which restricts damage to healthy tissues, gives it competitive advantage over alternative therapies. Purpose of this research is to review the available information about PDT and periodontal disease.