Tooth loss in patients who discontinue periodontal therapy

Investigators have assessed the impact of active and supportive periodontal therapy on the change in probing depth and annual tooth loss in partially and fully compliant drop-out patients.

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, the investigators analyzed the data of 280 periodontally treated partially and fully compliant patients and 55 drop-out patients.

Compared with those who were fully or partially compliant, the annual tooth loss rate was significantly higher in the patients who dropped out.

“Although periodontal stability was not achieved, contrary to expectations, the probing depths did not return to baseline measurements in patients who dropped out,” concluded Satheesh Elangovan, D.S.c., D.M.S.c., in a PracticeUpdate “Take-Home Message.”

Read more: Journal of Clinical Periodontology

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