Supportive Periodontal Therapy
Also written as: SPT — Supportive Periodontal Therapy
The ongoing phase of periodontal care delivered after active treatment to maintain clinical stability, monitor disease recurrence, and reinforce patient compliance.
Full Definition
Supportive periodontal therapy (SPT), also referred to as periodontal maintenance therapy, encompasses all procedures performed after the completion of active periodontal treatment to preserve the gains achieved and prevent disease recurrence. SPT appointments typically include reassessment of probing depths, clinical attachment levels, plaque scores, and radiographic bone levels; professional debridement; and reinforcement of oral hygiene instruction. The interval between SPT visits is tailored to individual risk profiles derived from periodontal risk assessment. Editors should distinguish SPT from periodontal maintenance as a scheduling concept; SPT is a clinical protocol term. The abbreviation SPT should be defined on first use.
Usage
Usage note: SPT is the clinically preferred term over 'maintenance' alone, as it emphasises the active therapeutic components of each recall visit. Define on first use.
In Context
- "Following completion of active periodontal treatment, all patients were enrolled in a three-monthly supportive periodontal therapy programme." — Clinical trial participant management protocol
- "SPT visits are distinct from routine dental check-ups and must include a full periodontal reassessment." — Practice management editorial