Risk assessment and management of periodontal disease.

Background: As our understanding of periodontal diseases has increased, it has become clear that certain risk factors are associated with the diseases' incidence, severity and progression. This article focuses on the role of risk assessment and disease management in improving patient outcomes, both in the general population and in specific population groups with an increased risk of developing periodontal disease or with associated comorbidities.

Types Of Studies Reviewed: The author reviewed literature related to the efficacy of risk assessment and periodontal disease management in improving clinical outcomes. In addition, he examined studies demonstrating a link between periodontal disease and specific patient populations and other comorbidities.

Conclusions: Risk assessment can help predict a patient's risk of developing periodontal disease and improve clinical decision making. In turn, patient adherence to a self-care oral health regimen is a key component to successful periodontal disease management.

Clinical Implications: The clinical practice of risk assessment may reduce the need for complex periodontal therapy, improve patient outcomes and ultimately reduce oral health care costs. Patients are encouraged to become actively involved in periodontal disease management by following a daily three-step regimen of brushing, flossing and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthrinse.