This ADA-EBD critical summary  looks at  systematic review by Sgolastra et al from 2012 that addressed  the question of whether the use of amoxicillin/metronidazole (AMX/MET)  as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) was more effective than SRP alone in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

The appraisers considered that searching an analysis of the data identified was well conducted and reported. However only 4 trial involving 147 participants could be included.

While the reviews findings suggested the use of AMX/MET as an adjunct to scaling and root planning may improve treatment outcomes the small number of studies and participants means that the results should be treated with caution.

Links

ADA-EBD Amoxicillin/metronidazole therapy may improve the effectiveness of scaling and root planing in patients with periodontitis: chronic

Sgolastra F, Gatto R, Petrucci A, Monaco A. Effectiveness of systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole as adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J  Periodontol. 2012 Oct;83(10):1257-69. Epub 2012 Feb 14. Review. PubMed PMID: 22220767.

Dental Elf 16^th Jan 2012 – Some evidence to support adjunctive amoxicillin and metronidazole for treatment of chronic periodontitis.