Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Versus Local Drug Delivery as an Adjunct to Non-surgical Periodontal Therapy in the Management of Periodontal Pockets: A Case Report

Periodontitis, a bacterial infection leading to the destruction of tooth-supporting tissues, is primarily driven by elevated levels of subgingival microorganisms. Effective periodontal therapy aims to eliminate or reduce these pathogens to halt disease progression, prevent recurrence, and regenerate lost tissues. This case report evaluates the effectiveness of non-surgical therapies, specifically tetracycline fibers and photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), as adjuncts to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of periodontal disease using a split-mouth design. Mechanical SRP alone may not fully remove pathogens from deep periodontal pockets, potentially leading to disease recurrence. To address this, various other techniques have been explored, including the use of tetracycline fibers and PBMT. Local delivery methods aim to minimize systemic side effects while maintaining high antimicrobial concentrations in the gingival crevicular fluid, whereas PBMT, known for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, involves exposing tissues to low-intensity light with wavelengths from red to near-infrared. This therapy activates cellular functions and mitochondrial processes, resulting in increased adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, nitric oxide levels, and overall tissue healing. Tetracycline fibers have been highlighted for their effectiveness in periodontal therapy due to their localized antimicrobial action. The integration of tetracycline fibers and PBMT with SRP presents a promising non-surgical approach to enhance the management of periodontal disease. The case report aims to provide insights into the efficacy of these adjunctive therapies in improving clinical outcomes for patients with periodontitis.