Antibacterial Photodynamic Therapy in the Management of Peri-implantitis

Clinical signs of inflammation in peri-implantitis include bleeding on probing, suppuration, increased probing depth, and radiographic signs of bone loss. Currently, the best treatment options for peri-implantitis include non-surgical methods of biofilm removal in the supra-mucosal area around implants, and comprehensive guidance on self-performed infection control procedures. With more advanced peri-implantitis, anti-infective surgical treatment protocol would be needed. Matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP-8) has been found to be elevated in association with oral infections, such as periodontitis and peri-implantitis. The level of active MMP-8 (aMMP-8) can detect to determine tissue health and to assess inflammation, and can easily be measured during a regular dental appointment with a chairside test. The Lumoral Treatment is a CE-marked medical device developed to provide a potent, targeted antibacterial action on dental plaque in a home environment. The method mechanism of action is antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT). The method is used by swishing a mouth rinse, which has a strong adherence to dental plaque. The plaque-adhered photoactive mouth rinse can be activated by a simple-to-use light applicator. Preliminary results have shown a promising anti-inflammatory response in addition to plaque reduction.