The Effect of Mechanical Plaque Control on the Clinical Parameters of Human Periodontal Disease

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the degree of healing which takes place in the periodontal tissues as a result of supragingival and subsequent subgingival plaque control attempts without any associated supra- or subgingival instrumentation and root planing. Seven patients with moderate to severe periodontitis were finally selected for the study. Measurements were made on maxillary and mandibular incisors, cuspids and premolars to establish base line plaque scores, bleeding scores, probing pocket depths, and probing attachment levels. The patients were then instructed in the use of toothbrushes, dental floss and interdental brushes where indicated. Measurements were repeated at monthly intervals until no significant changes in any of the clinical parameters were noted for two consecutive months. At this time the Perio-Aid® was introduced for the purpose of subgingival plaque control. Examinations were continued for three additional months. During the 5-month supragingival experimental period the mean plaque scores were reduced from 74% to 7%, mean bleeding on probing scores from 72% to 41%, and mean probing pocket depth from 4.4 to 3.9mm. The mean reduction of probing pocket depth of 0.5mm was the result of 0.2mm loss of attachment and 0.7mm gingival recession. Most of the changes in gingival topography occurred within the first month of the study, whereas bleeding scores showed a gradual reduction during the initial 3-4 months of the experimental period. There was no further change in clinical parameters after the introduction of the Perio-Aid® at the 5-month examination. In conclusion, limited changes occurred in the periodontal tissues following supragingival plaque control without any associated instrumentation