The novel index can be helpful to determine oral treatment needs and associated costs. Further research is needed to extend the clinical applicability of the index.

Essential oil solutions do not offer a clinical benefit over water when used as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement for the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Due to excessive treatment duration and surface damage, Er:YAG laser debridement at 60 and 250 mJ pulse(-1), respectively, is not appropriate for clinical use. Although laser debridement at 100 and 160 mJ pulse(-1) seems more suitable for clinical application, compared to ultrasound the former is more time-consuming and the latter is more aggressive. Using a feedback device or lower pulse energies are recommended when using laser in closed field.