Full-Mouth-Erythritol-Pulver-Air-Polishing-Therapie (FM-EPAPT) – ein Paradigmenwechsel: Ein neues Konzept zum Biofilmmanagement

Full Mouth Erythritol Powder Air-Polishing Therapy (FM-EPAPT) is a new and gentle way of performing periodontal therapy in patients suffering from generalized aggressive periodontitis (AgP). Within the framework of full mouth debridement within 24 h and the use of antibiotics, the debridement is done after staining the biofilm, removing it supra and subgingivally (in pockets up to 4 mm depth) first with air flow and Erythritol powder. Then the remaining calculus is visible, can be removed with a piezo scaler and mini curettes for very deep pockets. Almost the same procedure is used for the mandatory periodontal maintenance therapy. In the latter case remaining deep pockets (up to 9 mm) are debrided with a special subgingival nozzle.

In the preliminary scientific report the outcome of treatment with FM-EPAPT measured with clinical parameters of eleven patients is documented for the six weeks postoperative control session and the first periodontal maintenance appointment at three months. Furthermore, microbiological samples were taken before periodontal treatment and at six weeks. Data were analyzed with linear mixed models.

For all clinical parameters a definite improvement was seen. Pocket depth and attachment loss were improved, especially in sites with deep pockets. The number of sites with pocket depth > 5 mm decreased from 327 to 89. In comparison to baseline data, the proportion of periodontal pathogens was dramatically reduced at the six weeks control.

Within the limits of this study FM-EPAPT is definitely improving the periodontal health of patients suffering from AgP.