Fig. 1

Study design. At the baseline examination, all the study subjects underwent an initial periodontal treatment, including scaling and root planing. Re-examination by supportive periodontal therapy was carried out three months after the baseline examination. Final examination were carried out six months after the re-examination. All the study participants underwent periodontal examinations via saliva tests, and oral photographs were taken during the baseline examination, re-examination, and final examination period.