Nonsurgical approaches for the treatment of periodontal diseases.

This article reviews nonsurgical approaches for the management of periodontal diseases. A brief review of the pathogenesis of periodontitis allows the reader to identify the potential points of intervention. Assessment of risk factors for periodontitis and the potential for risk reduction are introduced as the first part of a three-pronged approach to therapy. Antimicrobial approaches, including the use of mechanical therapy, antiseptics, and antibiotics,are described next. Host modulatory therapy is addressed as the fi-nal component of the nonsurgical approach to periodontal therapy. Clinical applications of these nonsurgical options are presented as part of the treatment strategy.