Periodontal disease is a pervasive issue, affecting nearly half of the adult population in the United States. This chronic inflammatory condition, caused by bacterial infection, leads to the destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bone. Left untreated, it can result in tooth loss and has been linked to other systemic health issues such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Given the high prevalence of periodontal disease, dental practices, particularly Dental Service Organizations (DSOs), are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in improving periodontal health outcomes. The challenge lies in finding effective, efficient, and scalable treatments that can be seamlessly integrated into existing dental workflows without adding significant chair time or contributing to antibiotic resistance.
Enter PerioDT, an innovative desiccation-based therapy developed by Young Innovations. PerioDT utilizes sulfonated phenolics to dehydrate and disrupt harmful biofilm and debris, offering a fast and effective solution for periodontal therapy without the use of antibiotics. This advanced adjunctive therapy works in under one minute, making it an ideal addition to scaling and root planing (SRP), gingivitis treatment, or addressing early signs of bleeding.
One of the standout features of PerioDT is its ability to improve debridement by breaking down calculus and biofilm, which supports easier removal and promotes hemostasis. Clinical trials have shown that the adjunctive use of PerioDT with standard SRP leads to significant reductions in periodontal pocket depths, improved clinical attachment levels, and lower bleeding on probing. These benefits are sustained for at least 12 months, correlating with long-term reductions in pathogenic bacterial load.
PerioDT is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing hygiene workflows, making it an efficient tool for DSOs and group practices. The therapy's quick application time means that it does not require additional chair time, allowing hygienists to maintain their schedules while providing enhanced care. Moreover, its antibiotic-free approach addresses the growing concern of antibiotic resistance, offering a safer alternative for microbial reduction.
Hygienists report several clinical advantages when using PerioDT, including smoother debridement, enhanced visibility during procedures, and less chair-side bleeding. These improvements not only contribute to better clinical outcomes but also lead to quicker, more comfortable cleanings for patients. As a result, PerioDT helps increase case acceptance and overall hygiene production.
Great Expressions Dental Centers (GEDC) serves as a compelling case study for the successful implementation of PerioDT. After introducing the therapy across their offices, GEDC experienced a remarkable $70,000 boost in hygiene production within the first month. This growth continued to accelerate, reaching $200,000 by the third month and surpassing $500,000 in cumulative hygiene production within six months.
The key to GEDC's success lay in their strategic approach to scaling PerioDT system-wide. They began with a clear protocol and an internal procedure code, ensuring that all team members were aligned and trained on the new therapy. This structured rollout allowed for consistent application and tracking of results, demonstrating the tangible ROI of PerioDT.
A critical component of GEDC's implementation strategy was the adoption of an Expanded Function Hygiene Model, championed by Chi Chi Anigbogu, RDH, MSCH, PhD, VP of National Hygiene at GEDC. This model empowers hygienists to take on a more comprehensive role in patient care, elevating their responsibilities from routine prophylaxis to clinical drivers of periodontal health outcomes.
In this model, hygienists are trained to evaluate patients more comprehensively for periodontal needs, initiate and apply adjunctive therapies like PerioDT, participate in treatment planning and patient education, and influence case acceptance by explaining the clinical value of the therapy. Additionally, the use of internal procedure codes helps track performance and effectiveness, further supporting the integration of PerioDT into the practice.
Implementing PerioDT into your practice can be a straightforward process with the right approach. Here are key steps to ensure a successful integration:
Educate and Train Your Team: Provide comprehensive training for your hygiene team on the benefits and application of PerioDT. Utilize resources such as on-demand training, video tutorials, and clinical case studies to build confidence and competence.
Establish Clear Protocols: Develop and communicate clear protocols for the use of PerioDT™ in your practice. This includes creating internal procedure codes to track usage and outcomes, ensuring consistency and accountability.
Empower Your Hygienists: Adopt an Expanded Function Hygiene Model to empower your hygienists to take on a more significant role in periodontal care. Encourage them to evaluate patients thoroughly, apply PerioDT confidently, and educate patients on the benefits of the therapy.
Monitor and Measure Success: Regularly review the performance metrics associated with PerioDT™ implementation. Track improvements in periodontal health outcomes, patient satisfaction, and hygiene production to demonstrate the value of the therapy.
Promote Patient Education: Educate your patients about the importance of periodontal health and the benefits of PerioDT. Use clear, patient-friendly language to explain how the therapy works and its advantages over traditional treatments.
By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate PerioDT into your practice, enhancing both clinical outcomes and financial performance. The success of GEDC serves as a testament to the transformative potential of this innovative therapy, making it a valuable addition to any dental hygiene protocol.