This text presents detailed information about "gold standard" patient examination methods and clear clinical treatment protocols, reviewing periodontal instruments, techniques, and procedures, from the first visit to reevaluation, culminating in long-lasting effective maintenance therapy. Following proper diagnosis, nonsurgical periodontal treatment is characterized by home care and effective debridement. The patient's hygiene performance is the most significant factor influencing the success of any dental treatment and maintenance of clinical stability. Therapeutic options should always be modulated in a specific, personalized manner for each patient and each site in the oral cavity. Mechanical and manual instrumentation is technique sensitive. The ultimate goal is, without exception, to remove the pathogenic noxa in the most complete and effective manner, respecting tissue integrity and biology. The highly instructive clinical photographs and numerous drawings explain in detail how to acquire or correct operating techniques, adopting methods of instrumentation refined by the author.

The laser does not replace conventional methods but can offer additional benefits if used in accordance with appropriate protocols and parameters, as suggested by a careful review of the dental literature and proven clinical experience. The diode laser may also be indicated in cases of mucositis and for the initial treatment of peri-implantitis. Multiple clinical cases with long-term follow-up substantiate the positive effects of laser treatment. A critical review of the literature is also provided to augment the knowledge of a newcomer to these techniques.

Contents

Chapter 1. Clinical stability: The key long-term goal in periodontal therapy
Chapter 2. Periodontal patient management
Chapter 3. Cause-related therapy
Chapter 4. The diode laser in nonsurgical cause-realted periodontal therapy
Chapter 5. Peri-implantitis: Nonsurgical therapeutic approach
Chapter 6. Periodontal maintenance