Destructive periodontal disease is a concern because of the potential damage to the dentition and the nancial burden of treatment. It is generally agreed that microorganisms residing in periodontal pockets are responsible for periodontitis, but uncertainty exists regarding the exact mechanisms of destruction.The value of administering antimicrobial agents as a quick and inexpensive means of augmenting mechanical periodontal debridement is worthy of consideration. Periodontitis patients may bene t from systemic antibiotics, topical antibiotics and topical antiseptics. A debate is taking place...