BRANDÃO, Fernanda Dias; MORAIS, Jessica Gonçalves de; SILVA, João Vycttor Henryque da; TOBIAS, Renata Santos Fedato
Abstract:
Introduction: Periodontitis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease characterized by
the progressive destruction of the tooth-supporting tissues, often associated with
significant systemic repercussions. Nonsurgical periodontal therapy, based on scaling
and root planing, remains the therapeutic gold standard. However, its effectiveness
may be limited in areas of difficult access, such as deep periodontal pockets or regions
with complex anatomy. In this scenario, several adjunctive therapies have been widely
investigated with the purpose of enhancing the clinical and microbiological outcomes of
conventional treatment. Objective: The aim of this literature review was to analyze the
most recent scientific evidence regarding the use of laser therapy, antimicrobial
photodynamic therapy, ozone therapy, local antimicrobials, and probiotics as
adjunctive approaches in the management of chronic periodontitis. Methodology: For
this purpose, scientific articles available in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and
SciELO were selected, with emphasis on randomized clinical trials, systematic
reviews, and meta-analyses published in recent years. Results: The included studies
demonstrated that these therapies may provide additional benefits, such as reduction
in probing depth, gain in clinical attachment level, and favorable modulation of the
subgingival microbiota. Although the results are promising, greater methodological
standardization and the conduction of long-term clinical studies are still required to
confirm the sustained efficacy of these interventions. Conclusion: It is concluded that
adjunctive therapies represent relevant and expanding tools in the management of
chronic periodontitis, with the potential to complement and enhance conventional
periodontal approaches.
