Impact of mechanical therapy in generalized aggressive periodontitis

Generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAP) is a rarely seen form of periodontitis and the
main cause of tooth loss in young adults. It is a real challenge for the clinicians to cease the ongoing
inflammatory destruction.

Method:

14 GAP patients were included. Clinical parameters included Plaque Index (PI), Gingival
Index (GI), Periodontal Probing Depth (PD), Bleeding on Probing (BoP) and clinical attachment level
(CAL). Measurements were taken at 6 sites around all teeth excluding the third molars using a
periodontal probe . Subjects received scaling and root planing (S-RP) under local anesthesia in two
sequential visits in 24 h periods. No additional antibiotics was used. The patients were instructed for
oral hygiene. Measurements were taken at baseline and 6 weeks post-therapy.

Result:

Mean PPD was significantly reduced by the therapy (p<0,05). Mechanical therapy alone
was found to be successful on periodontal probing depth measurements and clinical attachment
levels compared to the baseline (p<0,05). Mechanical therapy had a pronounced effect in BoP scores
(p<0,05) PI and GI scores were reduced between baseline and post-therapy. Suggesting a successful
maintenance and effective oral hygiene practice by the patients.

Conclusion:

The clinical data of this study collectively suggested that the mechanical treatment
resulted in significant healing in GAP patients. The good healig results should be monitored
regularly in this type of periodontitis.