Utilization of a Periodontal Endoscope in Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy

Utilization of a Periodontal Endoscope in Nonsurgical Periodontal Therapy: A Randomized, Split-Mouth Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of teeth deep cleaning or scaling and root planing (SRP) using a periodontal endoscope (Perioscopy®) versus traditional SRP using magnifying loupes for up to twelve months, utilizing a split mouth design.

Twenty-five (25) patients were recruited for the study that exhibited mild to moderate periodontitis. SRP or deep cleaning was rendered by the same experienced hygienist, following random assignment of the left or right half of the mouth to either recieve deep cleaning by using a periodontal endoscope (Perioscopy®) or traditional deep cleaning using magnifying loupes. All the periodontal evaluations were done by the same periodontal resident at baseline, one month, three months, six months, and twelve months after deep cleaning.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 years of age or older
• in good general health
• given a diagnosis of mild-moderate generalized chronic periodontitis per the 1999 world workshop classification of periodontal diseases and conditions
• required whole mouth SRP
• teeth had a maximum of 6mm probing pocket depth at any site
• at least one molar present in each arch, excluding third molars.

Exclusion Criteria:

• any requirement for antibiotic premedication prior to dental treatment
• uncontrolled hypertension
• uncontrolled diabetes
• subject unwilling to sign the informed consent
• subject needed any antibiotic intervention for unrelated conditions