Local Drug Delivery in Periodontics: a Strategic Intervention

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease involving supportive structures of the teeth which is seen universally in all groups, ethnicities, races and both genders. Various antibacterial agents have been used effectively in the management of periodontal infection. The effectiveness of mechanical debridement of plaque and repeated topical and systemic administration of antibacterial agents are limited due to the lack of accessibility to periodontopathic organisms in the periodontal pocket. Local delivery of antimicrobials has been investigated for the possibility of overcoming the limitations of conventional therapy. These products provide a long-term, effective treatment at the site of infection at much smaller doses. Prospective multicentre studies considering risk factors for disease progression have to be designed to identify patients who may benefit the most from Local drug delivery.