Researchers found that using PDT was an effective method to minimize destruction of periodontal tissue which can accompany treatment for periodontal diseases...
Photodyamic Therapy for Periodontal Diseases May Be Beneficial
Alternative to antibiotics may be more effective and less harmful
CHICAGO—March 6, 2007—Photodynamic therapy (PDT) may be an effective way to treat the bacteria associated with periodontal diseases,
and could provide a better option than antibiotics or other mechanical treatment methods, according to a study published in the March 2007
issue of the Journal of Periodontology. Study Abstract *
Researchers at São Paulo State University found that using PDT was an effective method to minimize destruction of periodontal tissue which can
accompany treatment for periodontal diseases. In a rat population, PDT did minimal damage to periodontal tissues, in comparison to other techniques
including scaling and root planing and antibiotic therapy.
“We found that PDT is significantly less invasive than other treatments for periodontal diseases,” said study author Dr. Valdir Gouveia Garcia,
from the Department of Periodontology at São Paulo State University. “It can provide improved dentin hypersensitivity, reduced inflammation of the
tissues surrounding the teeth, and allows tissues to repair faster.”
PDT may be an alternative to antibiotic treatment, which is becoming increasingly important as antibiotic resistance increases. PDT involves
two stages; first, a light-sensitive drug is applied to the area. Second, a light or laser is shone on that area. When the light is combined
with the drug, phototoxic reactions induce the destruction of bacterial cells. PDT was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in
1999 to treat pre-cancerous skin lesions of the face or scalp.
“This is an exciting finding,” said Preston D. Miller, DDS and AAP president.
“PDT may be an effective therapy for the treatment of periodontal diseases. While patients have many options for treating their periodontal
diseases, PDT could prove to be a preferable alternative to antibiotic therapy. Unfortunately, long term antibiotic therapy not only decreases
the drug’s effectiveness, but also may lead to the development of drug resistant organisms. Our Academy supports future research to further define
the application of PDT as a means to treat periodontal disease.”
* EDITOR'S NOTE: Representatives of the media may contact the AAP Public Affairs Department to receive a copy of the study
Influence of photodynamic therapy on the development of ligature-induced
periodontitis in rats. Abstracts of Journal of Periodontology articles are available to the public online. Full-text of studies may
be accessed by AAP members and Journal subscribers or purchased online.
About the AAP
The
American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) is the professional organization for periodontists - specialists in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth, and in the placement of dental implants. Periodontists are also dentistry's experts in the treatment of oral inflammation. They receive three additional years of specialized training following dental school, and periodontics is one of the nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association. The AAP has 8,000 members worldwide.
Find out if you are at risk for periodontal diseases by taking the Academy's risk assessment test. Referral to a periodontist in your area is available by calling 800-FLOSS-EM or visiting the AAP's website at www.perio.org.
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To schedule an interview with an AAP spokesperson or for more information, please contact Meg Dempsey at
312-573-3242 or
meg@perio.org.
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