Study Finds Photodynamic Therapy Improves Outcomes in Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) — a modality that uses medications (photosensitizing agents) in addition to light to kill bacteria — was found to improve periodontal health among those with necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, a type of periodontal disease. Study subjects were divided into two groups: one that received PDT plus scaling and root planing and the other that had scaling and root planing only. The group that received PDT and scaling and root planing had better full mouth plaque and full mouth bleeding scores, as well as decreased numbers of Fusobacterium nucleatum and Prevotella intermedia than the group that received scaling and root planing alone. PDT is traditionally used in cancer treatment and to address acne. Click here to read more.