Photodynamic treatment (PDT) may be an effective way to treat the bacteria linked to periodontal diseases, and could provide a better option than antibiotics or other mechanical methods for treating periodontal diseases, as per a new study reported in the recent issue of the Journal of Periodontology.

Scientists at So Paulo State University observed that using PDT was an effective method to minimize destruction of periodontal tissue which can accompany therapy for periodontal diseases. In a rat population, PDT did minimal damage to periodontal tissues, compared to other techniques including scaling and root planing and antibiotic treatment.

"We observed that PDT is significantly less invasive than other therapys for periodontal diseases," said study author Dr. Valdir Gouveia Garcia, from the Department of Periodontology at So 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 therapy, 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-malignant skin lesions of the face or scalp.

"This is an exciting finding," said Preston D. Miller, Jr., DDS and President of the American Academy of Periodontology. "PDT may be an effective treatment for the therapy of periodontal diseases. While patients have a number of options for treating their periodontal diseases, PDT could prove to be a preferable alternative to antibiotic treatment. Unfortunately, long term antibiotic treatment not only decreases the drugs 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".


Posted by: Emily    Source

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