Long-term tooth preservation through supportive periodontal therapy: Report of 2 cases

This report presents two cases demonstrating long-term tooth preservation through supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) following active treatment. Case 1 involved a 44-year-old female diagnosed with generalized Stage III periodontitis in 1988, who underwent comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment followed by individualized SPT for 35 years, totaling 169 recall visits. Except for one molar, all teeth remained stable. Case 2, a 41-year-old female diagnosed in 2008 with generalized Stage III periodontitis and advanced bone loss, received repeated non-surgical therapy with adjunctive doxycycline, successfully delaying multiple extractions for over 10 years until selective implants were placed. Both patients showed excellent compliance and received adjunctive interventions when indicated. These cases highlight the critical role of individualized SPT in preventing recurrence, maintaining periodontal stability, and extending tooth survival in periodontally compromised patients through periodic evaluation, risk-factor control, and continuous reinforcement of oral hygiene.