Efficacy of curcumin as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in chronic periodontitis patients: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy of curcumin gel as local drug delivery post-scaling and root planing and its effect on clinical parameters like plaque, gingival scores, pocket depth, and clinical attachment level (CAL). Materials and methods: Ten patients with two sites in the contralateral quadrants having probing pocket depths (PPDs) of ≥5 mm were selected. Full-mouth scaling and root planing (SRP) was performed followed by the application of curcumin gel on a single side. Assessment of plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), PPD, and CALs were done at the baseline and at the 4th week. Results: The results revealed that there was a statistically significant reduction in PI and probing depth in the test group when compared with the control group. CAL was improved but the results were not statically significant. Conclusion: The local application of curcumin gel when used in conjunction with SRP showed a significant improvement in periodontal parameters and has a beneficial effect in patients with chronic periodontitis. Clinical significance: Curcumin gel as an adjunct to SRP showed a marked improvement in restoring gingival health by an improvement in clinical parameters. It has proven properties like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant, antiseptic, antimutagenic, and it also accelerates wound healing. It may be a more acceptable and viable option for the common man. Curcumin can be used as an effective alternative local drug delivery agent.