Aggressive periodontitis: how does an understanding of the pathogenesis affect treatment?

Aggressive periodontitis is a relatively rare periodontal condition that can result in significant attachment loss over a short period of time. As the disease is difficult to manage, owing to its rapid progression and severity, a variety of adjuncts have been advocated in its management. The authors outline concepts of the aetiology and pathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis and how the different treatment regimens relate to the current understanding of the disease process.

There is a wide variety of treatment regimens advocated for the treatment of aggressive periodontitis. General dental practitioners and specialists should be aware of the relative advantages and disadvantages of these and how they relate to the disease process.