EFFECTIVE AND AFFORDABLE PERIODONTAL #s %

Mechanical and chemical antimicrobial intervention is the mainstay of preventive periodontal therapv. Successful periodontal maimenanee care depends upon the ability ol"dental professionals to combat periodontal infections and patient compliance with prescribed follow-up care. Since tooth brushing, flossing and oral rinsing do not reach pathogens residing in furcations and at the depths of deep periodontal pockets, adequate oral hygiene should include subgingival treatment with home irrigators or other appropriate self-care remedies in patients with increased pocket depths. I'ovidonc-iodine for professional use and diluted bleach for self-care are iue\pensi\e and \aluable antimicrobial agents in periodontal maintenance. The present article outlines the prudent use of antimicrobial therapy in periodontal maintenance therapy. KKYW ORDS: Periodontal. Antimicrobial. Maintenance therapy. risks of progressive periodontal disease, but 3-4 appointments per year are recommended for most patients with a history of periodontitis3. Patients with a family history of severe periodontal disease, pregnant women, diabetic patients, HIV-infected patients, patients with neutrophil defects, and individuals with various behavioral risk factors such as smoking and excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates should be monitored more closely and treated more aggressively.