Dental plaque which is a primary etiological factor for periodontal disease is composed of bacterial aggregates that are adherent to one another and to surfaces and interfaces. These bacterias form a highly resistant biofilm with an exopolysaccharide matrix protection. The different treatment modalities available to treat this disease are aimed at removal of micro-organisms from both hard and soft tissues. Hence, antimicrobial agents can be used as an adjunct to conventional therapy. Tetracyclines have been used extensively in the treatment of periodontal disease since many years as these are capable of achieving high concentration in the sulcular fluid. Tetracyclines are semi-synthetic, broad spectrum chemotherapeutic agents which are bacteriostatic in action and hence are effective against rapidly multiplying bacteria. In the present case report, the role of tetracycline fiber in combination with periodontal flap surgery was evaluated.
Key words: Periodontitis, local drug delivery, tetracycline fibers.