What additional therapy might be indicated alongside scaling and root planing?

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical periodontal therapy aimed at removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line, promoting healing and reducing periodontal disease. While this procedure can effectively help in managing periodontal conditions, it may not always be sufficient on its own, especially in cases of moderate to severe periodontal disease.

In such cases, additional therapy, such as chemical therapy, may be indicated to further enhance the results of scaling and root planing. Chemical therapy can include the use of antiseptics and antibiotics to help control bacterial populations that contribute to periodontal disease. Antiseptics may help reduce the overall bacterial load in the periodontal pocket, while antibiotics can target specific pathogens that are resistant to mechanical cleaning. This combined approach can lead to improved clinical outcomes by promoting healing and reducing inflammation.

The other approaches, such as radiation therapy, orthodontic intervention, and surgical intervention, might not directly complement scaling and root planing in the management of periodontal disease. Radiation therapy is primarily used for cancer treatment, while orthodontic intervention focuses on aligning teeth rather than treating periodontal issues. Surgical intervention may be necessary in advanced cases, but it typically follows non-surgical therapies rather than serving as an immediate adjunct to scaling and root planing. Hence, chemical therapy is