Principles and clinical applications of periodontal controlled drug delivery with tetracycline fibers.

Controlled drug delivery of antibiotics in the periodontal pocket is a scientifically tested clinical reality. Application of pharmacokinetic principles allows effective suppression of the pathogenic microflora, which, in turn, results in resolution of inflammatory signs. In the cases presented, tetracycline fibers were employed as a supplement to mechanical therapy and oral hygiene in a variety of clinical situations. Outcomes included depression of periodontal pathogens, reduction of bleeding on probing, decrease in probing pocket depths, and increase in probing attachment levels. A novel therapeutic approach based on root planing for debridement, local drug delivery for control of the pathogens, and oral hygiene for preventing recolonization is discussed.