What might indicate the need for more aggressive periodontal treatment?

Worsening periodontal charting findings are key indicators that more aggressive periodontal treatment may be required. This includes signs such as increased probing depths, presence of bleeding on probing, attachment loss, or the development of new pockets. When these findings worsen, it typically indicates that the disease is progressing, which necessitates a more intensive approach to management to prevent further tissue breakdown and loss of attachment.

In contrast, stable probing depths suggest that the condition is being managed effectively, while increased bone density typically indicates health or an improvement in the condition, negating the need for aggressive intervention. Improvement in patient symptoms, such as reduced inflammation or discomfort, also suggests that the current treatment plan is effective and further aggressive treatment may not be necessary. Thus, worsening findings in periodontal charting directly correlate to the need for escalated treatment efforts.