Periodontal advances--a review

Recent advances in periodontics have altered our understanding of the disease process and thus its management. Its diagnosis is still not well defined, but treatment can arrest further breakdown. Surgery as a final solution in treatment is losing favour universally, particularly as research has proved that non-surgical treatment provides an equal result. The maintenance phase of the patient's care is a crucial factor in the long-term success of periodontal disease control. This paper provides a broad review of the major advances in periodontal philosophy and clinical management.