A Split-Mouth Study Comparing Photodynamic Therapy and Scaling and Root Planning in the Treatment of Chronic Periodontitis

Chronic periodontitis is a complex condition with a well-established bacterial cause. The primary treatment for non-surgical periodontal therapy is mechanical debridement. However, certain areas that are difficult to access can hinder the effectiveness of this approach, prompting the exploration of adjunctive therapies to enhance the results of conventional scaling and root planning (SRP). Various alternative therapies, such as ozone therapy, probiotics, systemic and local antibiotics, and photodynamic therapy (PDT), have been investigated for the management of periodontal diseases. Antibiotics, while effective, are limited by potential systemic side effects and the risk of bacterial resistance. PDT has emerged as a modern, non-toxic, non-invasive, and highly effective antimicrobial treatment for a variety of conditions. This treatment involves the use of a photosensitizer dye, which, when exposed to low-level laser light (660-680 nm, 100 mW), produces singlet oxygen, a powerful oxidizing agent that kills bacteria. This split-mouth study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PDT as an adjunct to SRP compared to SRP alone in patients with chronic periodontitis. Clinical parameters were measured at baseline and ninety days after PDT application. The results of the study showed statistically significant improvements in clinical parameters for the SRP + PDT group. When used alongside SRP, PDT has demonstrated enhanced periodontal outcomes, providing a beneficial effect for patients with chronic periodontitis.