Background. Periodontal diseases are complex disorders that have been associated with multiple risk factors. These disorders are triggered by the accumulation of dental plaque, and the clinical signs are caused by the resultant inflammatory and immune responses. Tissue destruction that defines periodontitis has been linked to excessive production of proinflammatory molecules including matrix metalloproteinases, interleukin-1 beta and prostaglandin E2. Important risk factors for periodontitis can be grouped into four categories: microbial, systemic, behavioral and local. These risk factors can be considered modifiable or unmodifiable. Controlling risk factors is important in the management of chronic diseases and is a valid strategy for controlling periodontal diseases. Limiting the accumulation of dental plaque is an important part of controlling the development and progression of periodontal diseases. By adhering to a daily oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing, flossing and rinsing, patients play an essential role in disease management.
Conclusion. Patients play an important role in controlling the oral microbial biofilm that is essential to the initiation, development and progression of periodontal diseases. A daily oral hygiene regimen that includes the use of an antimicrobial mouthrinse can modify patients’ microbial risk of developing periodontal disease.
Clinical Implications. Patients can help reduce their risk of developing periodontal disease by controlling the accumulation of plaque. This can be accomplished, in part, by adhering to a daily oral hygiene regimen that includes brushing, flossing and using an antimicrobial mouthrinse.
