Closed or open periodontitis treatment. A review of the literature
Becherer, C.F.
Schweizer Monatsschrift für Zahnmedizin 104(10): 1191-1201
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-2855 PMID: 7973551 Document Number: 433587
Clinical data characterizing the results of non-surgical, conservative versus surgical modalities of periodontal treatment are presented and summarized, as they appeared in the international literature. Primarily, the clinical disease status prior to treatment is discussed. Thereafter, the therapeutic success of either modality was measured on the basis of the following parameters: reduction of probing depth, changes in attachment levels, cleanliness of root surfaces, elimination of inflammation, and longlasting tooth survival. The literature review revealed that the choice of either treatment modality influences the therapeutic success only indirectly. More important is that the diseased root surface is meticulously cleaned from all bacterial debris. In the presence of shallow (1 to 3 mm) and medium-sized (4 to 6 mm) pockets, surgical and non-surgical treatment provides equally good results. Deep pockets (7 mm or deeper) and, in particular, crater-like bony pockets as well as furcation involvement respond with better results, if surgical treatment is assigned. In the long run, however, therapeutic success can be secured only by means of a consequent periodical recall and with support of the patient's willingness to perform optimal oral hygiene.