The article I chose to summarize "Local Chemotherapeutics As An Adjunct To Scaling And Root Planing" written by COL. Lawrence G. Breault, DMD, MS and SGM Stephen E. Spadaro, discusses local chemotherapeutic agents as an adjunct to scaling and root planing. The article states that periodontal disease can appear in localized areas and that disease can still surround certain areas of the mouth even after scaling and root planning. In order to help control these areas where disease is still present, application of antimicrobial agents could be utilized to treat further production of the pathogenic microorganisms. The three chemotherapeutic agents reviewed in the article are Doxycycline Gel (Atridox), Chlorhexidine Chip (PerioChip), and Minocycline Microspheres (Arestin). These agents are used as another mode of therapy and should be used on an individual basis in conjunction with scaling and root planning. They are not intended for initial treatment. Doxycycline Gel, otherwise known as Atridox, is a theruaputic agent that is expressed into the periodontal pocket via syringe. After being placed into the pocket, a dental instrument can be used to pack the material down to the base of the pocket. Once the solution reaches its destination it quickly solidifies due to the moist environment of the pocket. Once the gel has been applied the patient is instructed to avoid brushing or flossing for one week in the administered site. Chlorhexidine Chip, otherwise known as PerioChip, is a topical antimicrobial agent that when used as a rinse or irrigation can minimize the production of plaque by 25-40%. The mechanism of action is cell death by disruption of the cell wall membrane. PerioChip contains 2.5mg of Chlorhexidine and is placed into a periodontal pocket that is 5mm or greater. Once a chip is placed into a pocket, it is then absorbed by the body over eight to ten days. Some disadvantages of the PerioChip is that it can stain teeth, cause the formation of calculus, and give an altered taste. Minocycline Microspheres, otherwise known as Arestin, is a therapeutic agent that is placed into the periodontal pocket in a powder form and releases antibiotic concentrations for up to fourteen days after placement. When used in conjunction with scaling and root planing there can be a reduction in probing depths of up to 1.32mm, where scaling and root planing alone has shown a reduction in pocket depths of 1.08mm. Although no other treatment has proven to be as effective as scaling and root planing in the removal of plaque biofilm and its pathogens, the chemotherapeutic agents give an added assurance for the quality of care, given the appropriate individual would benefit from the treatment. What I learned from this article are the benefits of using chemotherapeutic agents in the reduction of periodontal pockets. This will help me in my career as a Dental Hygienist with educating my patient with the studies and facts of certain products in the dental office that are used to reduce or alter the effect of microorganism production. I can explain to my patient that antimicrobial refers to agents that kill microbes that grow and multiply in the mouth. The information given could aid me in determining if the individual is likely to benefit from the treatment of chemotherapeutic agents.