The Role of Periostat in the Management of Adult Periodontitis: a Critical Assessment

This article addresses the role of Periostat in the treatment of adult periodontitis. Background information regarding the role of matrix metalloproteinases in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases and the ability of tetracyclines to inhibit these enzymes are discussed. Data from large clinical trials concerning the benefits of using subantimicrobial doses of doxycycline are reviewed and critiqued with respect to their clinical significance. Overall, the mean data suggest that the use of Periostat provides a defined but limited improvement of periodontal status.