Low-cost periodontal therapy

Assessment of the Effect on Periodontitis of Antibiotic Therapy and Bacterial Lysate Treatment

Periodontitis is an inflammatory process that starts with soft tissue inflammation caused by the intervention of oral bacteria. By modulating local immunity, it is possible to supplement or replace current therapeutic methods. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of an immunostimulatory treatment with the antibiotherapy usually applied to periodontitis patients. On a model of periodontitis induced in 30 rats (divided into three equal groups) with bacterial strains selected from the human oral microbiome (Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus oralis), we administered antibiotics, bacterial lysates and saline for 10 days. Clinically, no significant lesions were observed between the groups, but hematologically, we detected a decrease in lymphocyte and neutrophil counts in both the antibiotic and lysate-treated groups. Immunologically, IL-6 remained elevated compared to the saline group, denoting the body's effort to compensate for bone loss due to bacterial action. Histopathologically, the results show more pronounced oral tissue regeneration in the antibiotic group and a reduced inflammatory reaction in the lysate group. We can conclude that the proposed bacterial lysate has similar effects to antibiotic therapy and can be considered an option in treating periodontitis, thus eliminating the unnecessary use of antibiotics.

A Low-Cost Protocol Using the Adjunctive Action of Povidone-Iodine Irrigations and Sodium Hypochlorite Rinsing Solution in Step 2 of Periodontal Therapy for Patients with Stage III-IV Periodontitis: A Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

In severe stages of periodontitis, conventional periodontal therapy and maintenance care are usually insufficient due to the viral and bacterial etiology; thus, a mechanical approach alone may not be sufficient to eliminate a substantial portion of subgingival pathogens, especially in deep periodontal sites. Background and Objectives: This single-blind, randomized clinical trial aimed to compare the clinical and microbiological efficacy of a low-cost protocol using povidone-iodine and sodium hypochlorite formulations as adjuncts to non-surgical therapy for patients with stage IV periodontitis when compared with chlorhexidine, the most commonly employed substance to date for antimicrobial regimens in periodontal therapy. Materials and Methods: Forty-five patients were randomly divided into two groups: control (subgingival instrumentation, chlorhexidine-assisted) and test (antiviral medication, subgingival instrumentation with povidone-iodine, sodium hypochlorite rinsing solution, and antibiotics). Clinical measurements and microbiological analyses were performed at baseline and after three months. Results: After three months, notable differences were found in the bacterial detection scores for Porphyromonas gingivalis (a significant reduction in detection frequency was observed in the test compared to the control (p = 0.021)), and there were significant reductions in detection in the test group for Tannerella forsythia and Treponema denticola, showing undetectable levels (p < 0.0001 for both). In the test group, the pocket probing depth median value was reduced significantly (p = 0.0005); similarly, bleeding on probing showed a marked decrease (p < 0.0001). However, changes in clinical attachment loss and full-mouth plaque score were not statistically significant. Conclusions: Using the proposed protocol, substantial improvements in clinical and microbiological parameters were obtained when compared with the current antimicrobial recommendations.

Efficacy of a novel three-step decontamination protocol for titanium-based dental implants: An in vitro and in vivo study

AIM

The aim of the study was to evaluate several mechanical and chemical decontamination methods associated with a newly introduced biofilm matrix disruption strategy for biofilm cleaning and preservation of implant surface features.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Titanium (Ti) discs were obtained by additive manufacturing. Polymicrobial biofilm-covered Ti disc surfaces were decontaminated with mechanical [Ti curette, Teflon curette, Ti brush, water-air jet device, and Er:YAG laser] or chemical [iodopovidone (PVPI) 0.2% to disrupt the extracellular matrix, along with amoxicillin; minocycline; tetracycline; H2 O2 3%; chlorhexidine 0.2%; NaOCl 0.95%; hydrocarbon-oxo-borate-based antiseptic] protocols. The optimal in vitro mechanical/chemical protocol was then tested in combination using an in vivo biofilm model with intra-oral devices.

RESULTS

Er:YAG laser treatment displayed optimum surface cleaning by biofilm removal with minimal deleterious damage to the surface, smaller Ti release, good corrosion stability, and improved fibroblast readhesion. NaOCl 0.95% was the most promising agent to reduce in vitro and in vivo biofilms and was even more effective when associated with PVPI 0.2% as a pre-treatment to disrupt the biofilm matrix. The combination of Er:YAG laser followed by PVPI 0.2% plus NaOCl 0.95% promoted efficient decontamination of rough Ti surfaces by disrupting the biofilm matrix and killing remnants of in vivo biofilms formed in the mouth (the only protocol to lead to ~99% biofilm eradication).

CONCLUSION

Er:YAG laser + PVPI 0.2% + NaOCl 0.95% can be a reliable decontamination protocol for Ti surfaces, eliminating microbial biofilms without damaging the implant surface.

Efficacy of injectable platelet-rich fibrin on clinical and biochemical parameters in non-surgical periodontal treatment: a split-mouth randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this clinical trial was to evaluate the potential clinical and biochemical effects of injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF) application adjunct to scaling and root planning (ScRp) in deep periodontal pockets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this split-mouth-designed study, 17 patients with 34 deep periodontal pockets were randomly treated with ScRp + i-PRF (test group) and ScRp + saline (control group). Clinical periodontal measurements were recorded at baseline, 1st, 3rd, and 6th months after the treatments. The levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL)-10 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) samples were analyzed using the ELISA method at baseline, 7th, and 14th days.

RESULTS

Clinical periodontal parameters showed significant improvements with both treatment modalities. Mean pocket reduction (PD) and clinical attachment (CAL) gain were significantly higher in the test group than in controls at follow-up visits (p < 0.05). In the test group, gingival recession (GR) values were significantly lower compared to the control group. VEGF and IL-10 levels in the test group were significantly higher than in controls at the 14th day, and TNF-α levels were found significantly lower in the test group at the 7th and 14th days.

CONCLUSIONS

Especially in the test group, the significant increase in VEGF and IL-10 expressions and the decrease in TNF-α levels may have accelerated the periodontal healing observed in the clinical parameters.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The result of the present study demonstrated the beneficial effects of adjunctive i-PRF administration during non-surgical periodontal treatment of deep periodontal pockets.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05753631.

Antimicrobial Mouthwashes: An Overview of Mechanisms-What Do We Still Need to Know?

This narrative literature review is the first in a 6-section supplement on the role of mouthwashes in oral care. This introduction briefly summarises current knowledge on antimicrobial mechanisms, relating to some of the most common over-the-counter mouthwash products available worldwide: chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, cetylpyridinium chloride, povidone iodine, and essential oils. The aim of this first article is to describe how mouthwashes "kill" pathogenic microbes when used adjunctively and thus provide a basis for their widespread use to manage key oral diseases, namely caries, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. This article therefore sets the scene for subsequent, more detailed exploration of mouthwashes regarding their clinical effectiveness, impact on the oral microbiome, and possible effects on systemic health as well as natural alternatives and future directions. Other than the clinical effectiveness (for certain agents) of mouthwashes, on many topics there remains insufficient evidence for systematic review or formulation of robust national guidelines. The supplement, therefore, compiled by an international task team, is aimed at general dental practitioners across the globe, as an easy-to-read guide for helping to advise patients on mouthwash use based on the current best available evidence.

Weak direct current exerts synergistic effect with antibiotics and reduces the antibiotic resistance: An in vitro subgingival plaque biofilm model

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Weak direct current (DC) exerts killing effect and synergistic killing effect with antibiotics in some specific bacteria biofilms. However, the potential of weak DC alone or combined with periodontal antibiotics in controlling periodontal pathogens and plaque biofilms remains unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate whether weak DC could exert the anti-biofilm effect or enhance the killing effect of metronidazole (MTZ) and/or amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium (AMC) on subgingival plaque biofilms, by constructing an in vitro subgingival plaque biofilm model.

METHODS

The pooled subgingival plaque and saliva of patients with periodontitis (n = 10) were collected and cultured anaerobically on hydroxyapatite disks in vitro for 48 h to construct the subgingival plaque biofilm model. Then such models were stimulated with 0 μA DC alone (20 min/12 h), 1000 μA DC alone (20 min/12 h), 16 μg/ml MTZ, 16 μg/ml AMC or their combination, respectively. Through viable bacteria counting, metabolic activity assay, quantitative real-time PCR absolute quantification and 16S rDNA sequencing analysis, the anti-biofilm effect of 1000 μA DC and enhanced killing effects of 1000 μA DC combined with antibiotics (MTZ, AMC or MTZ+AMC) were explored.

RESULTS

The old subgingival plaque model (48 h) had no significant difference in total bacterial loads from subgingival plaque in situ, which achieved a similarity of 80%. The 1000 μA DC plus MTZ or AMC for 12 h showed a stronger synergistic killing effect than the same combination for 20 min. The metabolic activity was reduced to the lowest by DC plus MTZ+AMC, as 37.4% of that in the control group, while average synergistic killing effect reached 1.06 log units and average total bacterial loads decreased to 0.87 log units. Furthermore, the relative abundance of the genera Porphyromonas, Prevotella, Treponema_2, and Tannerella were decreased significantly.

CONCLUSION

The presence of weak DC (1000 μA) improved the killing effect of antibiotics on subgingival plaque biofilms, which might provide a novel strategy to reduce their antibiotic resistance.

Antimicrobial Chemotherapy for Recalcitrant Severe Human Periodontitis

This study evaluated a combined systemic and topical anti-infective periodontal treatment of 35 adults who had experienced ongoing periodontal breakdown following conventional surgical periodontics. The prescribed anti-infective therapy, based on microbiological testing, consisted of a single course of metronidazole plus ciprofloxacin (23 patients), metronidazole plus amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (10 patients), and metronidazole plus ciprofloxacin followed by metronidazole plus amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (2 patients). In addition, the study patients received 0.1% povidone-iodine subgingival disinfection during non-surgical root debridement and daily patient administered oral irrigation with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite. At 1 and 5 years post-treatment, all study patients showed gains in clinical periodontal attachment with no further attachment loss, and significant decreases in pocket probing depth, bleeding on probing, and subgingival temperature. The greatest disease resolution occurred in patients who at baseline harbored predominantly major periodontal pathogens which post-antibiotics became non-detectable and substituted by non-periodontopathic viridans streptococci. The personalized and minimally invasive anti-infective treatment regimen described here controlled periodontitis disease activity and markedly improved the clinical and microbiological status of the refractory periodontitis patients.

The effectiveness of miswak (Salvadora persica L. and Azadirachta indica A.Juss.) practices in reducing plaque and gingivitis among adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Salvadora persica L. and Azadirachtaindica A.Juss. are listed within the most common sources of miswak or chewing stick that widely used among Western Asia and Muslim populations worldwide. Miswak use in conjunction with toothbrush (adjunctive) has become apparent among the adults. Furthermore, miswak has been reported to have mechanical and pharmacological activities, and benefits to the oral health, by many studies.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To assess the effectiveness of miswak in maintaining periodontal health among adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effect of miswak published in PubMed, EBSCOHOST (Dentistry & Oral Sciences), SCOPUS, and Cochrane Database for Systematic Review (CDSR) from inception to May 08, 2022. The primary outcomes of interest were changes in the periodontal health measured with plaque and gingivitis scores as well as subgingival bacteria load. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach while the estimates of effect were pooled using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Ten eligible articles were identified, of which 9 could be analysed quantitatively. The remaining report was included as part of the qualitative analysis. The meta-analysis showed that miswak was comparable with the toothbrush in reducing the mean plaque score (p= 0.08, SMD: 0.39, and 95% CI: -0.05 to 0.83) and mean gingivitis score (p= 0.37, SMD: 0.13, and 95% CI: -0.16 to 0.43). Even higher certainty of evidence for the effect of miswak on mean plaque reduction on labial surface of anterior teeth. However, the adjunctive effect of miswak was significantly more superior for reducing plaque (p= 0.01, SMD: 0.68, and 95% CI: 0.14 to 1.22) and gingivitis score (p= 0.04, SMD: 0.66, and 95% CI: 0.03 to 1.29).

CONCLUSIONS

Miswak effectively reduced plaque and gingivitis scores to a level comparable to toothbrush when used exclusively. Adjunctive miswak use was particularly effective in improving periodontal health. However, the included studies inadequately reported on the method of toothbrushing using miswak and the frequency of miswak use. Therefore, further clinical studies are recommended to explore on the advantages and proper method of miswak practice for optima outcome and safety.

Evaluation of Aloe vera as a Natural Pharmaceutic in Mouthwashes: A Narrative Review

Context: Mouth rinses have been recognized as the main adjuvant or primary treatment to address many issues relating to dentistry. Previous studies have investigated the anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-viral, antioxidant, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial effects of Aloe vera. Recently, Aloe vera has been applied to treat several dental and oral conditions. Methods: Official web pages, such as Scopus, PubMed, and Microsoft were searched for collecting the required data using the keywords Aloe vera, Aloe vera mouthwash, Aloe vera mouth rinse, and dentistry. After checking the abstracts and titles, all relevant papers were retrieved for performing a full-text review. Results: Aloe vera was effective in reducing periodontal indices compared to chlorhexidine. It was also effective in treating oral diseases such as mucositis, postoperative pain, trismus, and dry socket incidence after the third molar extraction. Aloe vera decreased the number of colony-forming units during scaling and root planning (SRP). Conclusions: Aloe vera mouthwash was just as effective as other commercial mouthwashes in reducing the severity of radiation-induced mucositis, periodontal disease, the amount of S. mutans, the number of colony-forming units during SRP, and other situations which required a mouth rinse for the acceleration of treatment.

Future Drug Targets in Periodontal Personalised Medicine—A Narrative Review

Periodontal disease is an infection-driven inflammatory disease characterized by the destruction of tooth-supporting tissues. The establishment of chronic inflammation will result in progressive destruction of bone and soft tissue changes. Severe periodontitis can lead to tooth loss. The disease has complex pathogenesis with an interplay between genetic, environmental, and host factors and pathogens. Effective management consists of plaque control and non-surgical interventions, along with adjuvant strategies to control inflammation and disrupt the pathogenic subgingival biofilms. Recent studies have examined novel approaches for managing periodontal diseases such as modulating microbial signaling mechanisms, tissue engineering, and molecular targeting of host inflammatory substances. Mounting evidence suggests the need to integrate omics-based approaches with traditional therapy to address the disease. This article discusses the various evolving and future drug targets, including proteomics, gene therapeutics, vaccines, and nanotechnology in personalized periodontal medicine for the effective management of periodontal diseases.

A Cross-Sectional Study for Association between Periodontitis and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Using the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study Data

Recently, several studies have suggested the relationship between periodontitis and prostatic disease. However, epidemiological studies on the association between periodontitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) are scarce. Hence, we aimed to identify the association between the two diseases using data from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. Among the 173,209 participants, 3297 men with periodontitis and 35,292 controls (without periodontitis) were selected. The history of BPH in participants with periodontitis and the controls were also investigated. Two-tailed analyses, independent t-tests, and chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for BPH was 1.50 (95% confidence interval, 1.35–1.68; p < 0.001) after adjusting for past medical histories. The adjusted OR for BPH was 1.57 (95% confidence interval, 1.41–1.76; p < 0.001) after adjusting for anthropometric and laboratory data. Collectively, this study provides evidence that periodontitis is associated with BPH. This finding supports the use of regular dental checkups and periodontal treatments to reduce the prevalence and progression of BPH.

Immunomodulation in the Treatment of Periodontitis: Progress and Perspectives

Periodontitis is one of the most common dental diseases. Compared with healthy periodontal tissues, the immune microenvironment plays the key role in periodontitis by allowing the invasion of pathogens. It is possible that modulating the immune microenvironment can supplement traditional treatments and may even promote periodontal regeneration by using stem cells, bacteria, etc. New anti-inflammatory therapies can enhance the generation of a viable local immune microenvironment and promote cell homing and tissue formation, thereby achieving higher levels of immune regulation and tissue repair. We screened recent studies to summarize the advances of the immunomodulatory treatments for periodontitis in the aspects of drug therapy, microbial therapy, stem cell therapy, gene therapy and other therapies. In addition, we included the changes of immune cells and cytokines in the immune microenvironment of periodontitis in the section of drug therapy so as to make it clearer how the treatments took effects accordingly. In the future, more research needs to be done to improve immunotherapy methods and understand the risks and long-term efficacy of these methods in periodontitis.

Effect of a sodium hypochlorite mouthwash on plaque and clinical parameters of periodontal disease-a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to establish the efficacy of sodium hypochlorite mouthwash (NaOCl-MW) compared with a control mouthwash on plaque and clinical parameters of periodontal disease.

METHODS

MEDLINE-PubMed, Embase and Cochrane-CENTRAL databases were searched for clinical trials on patients with gingivitis or periodontitis that assessed the effect of NaOCl-MW in comparison with a negative or positive control on plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding index (BI) scores and probing pocket depth (PPD). Data were extracted from the eligible studies.

RESULTS

Seven eligible papers were retrieved, which together represented six clinical trials. The studies showed considerable heterogeneity regarding methodological and clinical aspects that did not permit a meta-analysis. Two of the three studies in which NaOCl-MW was compared with a negative control showed that NaOCl-MW significantly reduced PI, GI and BI, and no effect was found on PPD. In three studies, NaOCl-MW was assessed using chlorhexidine mouthwash (CHX-MW) as a positive control; no difference was found for GI and BI. One of the three comparisons showed a statistically significant PI score favouring NaOCl-MW. One study measured PPD and found it to be significant in favour of NaOCl-MW.

CONCLUSIONS

Studies with a negative control group provided very weak quality evidence for a very small beneficial effect of NaOCl-MW on PI, GI and BI scores. Studies with a positive control group provided very weak quality evidence that NaOCl-MW had a similar effect as CHX-MW on PI, GI and BI scores. The outcome for PPD was inconclusive.

Thermoresponsive Hydrogel-Based Local Delivery of Simvastatin for the Treatment of Periodontitis

Except for routine scaling and root planing, there are few effective nonsurgical therapeutic interventions for periodontitis and associated alveolar bone loss. Simvastatin (SIM), one of the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-cosenzyme A reductase inhibitors, which is known for its capacity as a lipid-lowering medication, has been proven to be an effective anti-inflammatory and bone anabolic agent that has shown promising benefits in mitigating periodontal bone loss. The local delivery of SIM into the periodontal pocket, however, has been challenging due to SIM's poor water solubility and its lack of osteotropicity. To overcome these issues, we report a novel SIM formulation of a thermoresponsive, osteotropic, injectable hydrogel (PF127) based on pyrophosphorolated pluronic F127 (F127-PPi). After mixing F127-PPi with F127 at a 1:1 ratio, the resulting PF127 was used to dissolve free SIM to generate the SIM-loaded formulation. The thermoresponsive hydrogel's rheologic behavior, erosion and SIM release kinetics, osteotropic property, and biocompatibility were evaluated in vitro. The therapeutic efficacy of SIM-loaded PF127 hydrogel on periodontal bone preservation and inflammation resolution was validated in a ligature-induced periodontitis rat model. Given that SIM is already an approved medication for hyperlipidemia, the data presented here support the translational potential of the SIM-loaded PF127 hydrogel for better clinical management of periodontitis and associated pathologies.

Inhibition of experimental periodontitis by a monoclonal antibody against Porphyromonas gingivalis HA2

It is known that complexes of the multi-protein, gingipain, possess heme binding domains (hemagglutinin 2, HA2) that bind hemoglobin to provide heme and iron to the bacterium, Porphyromonas gingivalis. The DHYAVMISK peptide sequence was proposed to act as an inhibitor of hemin binding, and thus, it might be used to control or prevent periodontal disease. In this study, we created a monoclonal antibody (mAb) that targeted the DHYAVMISK peptide, aimed to determine whether it could inhibit the growth of P. gingivalis in vitro, and block its induction of experimental periodontitis and subsequent bone loss. Peptide DGFPG-DHYAVMISK conjugated to KLH (DK-KLH) was synthetic, and injected subcutaneously into BALB/c mice to generate specific mAbs with the hybridoma technique. We isolated mAb 1H11, which showed specific binding to DK. When we incubated these mAbs with P. gingivalis in vitro for 18 h, bacterial growth was significantly lower in cultures treated with mAb 1H11 compared to those treated with control (PBS; P < 0.05). Next, we induced experimental periodontitis in mouse models with a silk ligature and a P. gingivalis infection. When we injected the mAbs into the gingival sulcus, the group treated with mAb 1H11 displayed a reduction in bone loss compared to the other treatment groups. Thus, mAb 1H11 might provide protection against a P. gingivalis infection. Accordingly, this antibody could serve as a candidate therapy for periodontitis or other infections caused by P. gingivalis.

Oral Health: Opportunities for Lifestyle Medicine Highlighted by the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic

A significant amount of illness has origins in oral microorganisms. The current SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) pandemic has reduced the general population’s access to and use of routine and nonemergency dental care. This creates a dangerous situation in which oral bacteria, fungi, and viruses may remain unchecked and allowed to flourish, which in turn increases risks for several systemic diseases as well as negative outcomes for pregnancies and surgical patients. This situation presents opportunities for health maintenance and disease prevention by individuals as well as for dental health professionals to use anti-infective treatments and procedures. Lifestyle medicine professionals have a chance to encourage behaviors that individuals can undertake to promote good oral health outside of the dentist’s office as well as shaping public perceptions about and reinforcing the importance of resuming dental visits as governmental restrictions allow.

Analgesic and Antibiotic Prescription Pattern among Dentists in Guangzhou: A Cross-Sectional Study

Aim

To assess the rational use of drugs and the pattern of prescribing of analgesics and antibiotics for dental management and the information given by dentists in Guangzhou to their patients about the use of these drugs.

Methods

A questionnaire was distributed to 225 dentists working in Guangzhou. The questionnaires consisted of open-ended questions and were given to dentists about analgesic and antibiotic use in dentistry. The questionnaires were analyzed, and absolute frequencies were expressed in the answers to each question. The cases, the analgesics, and the antibiotics recommended by the dentists for each case were determined by the frequency analysis method of descriptive statistics.

Results

Responses to the questionnaire were received from 164 (72.9%) dentists. Paracetamol and diclofenac were the most widely prescribed analgesics. It is also estimated that selective COX-2 inhibitors or opioid analgesics have not been administered by dentists. The antibiotics primarily used for treatment were amoxicillin and metronidazole, and amoxicillin was used for prophylaxis. While more than 80% of dentists indicated that they provided their patients with information on the use of antibiotics, the quality of the information was limited. Patients were primarily instructed by dentists to observe the dosage and dose intervals of the prescription drugs.

Conclusions

The results of the present study demonstrated that dentists most commonly prescribe paracetamol and diclofenac as analgesics, amoxicillin, and metronidazole for the therapy of periodontal, endodontic, and surgical procedures. The results also showed that dentists informed their patients inadequately about analgesic and antibiotic use.

Effect of long-term methylene blue treatment on the composition of mouse gut microbiome and its relationship with the cognitive abilities of mice

In recent years, methylene blue (MB) has attracted considerable interest as a potential drug for the treatment of methemoglobinemia and neurodegenerative diseases. MB is active against microorganisms from various taxonomic groups. However, no studies have yet been conducted on the effect of MB on the intestinal microbiome of model animals. The aim of this work was to study the effect of different concentrations of MB on the mouse gut microbiome and its relationship with the cognitive abilities of mice. We showed that a low MB concentration (15 mg/kg/day) did not cause significant changes in the microbiome composition. The Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio decreased relative to the control on the 2nd and 3rd weeks. A slight decrease in the levels Actinobacteria was detected on the 3rd week of the experiment. Changes in the content of Delta, Gamma, and Epsilonproteobacteria have been also observed. We did not find significant alterations in the composition of intestinal microbiome, which could be an indication of the development of dysbiosis or other gut dysfunction. At the same time, a high concentration of MB (50 mg/kg/day) led to pronounced changes, primarily an increase in the levels of Delta, Gamma and Epsilonproteobacteria. Over 4 weeks of therapy, the treatment with high MB concentration has led to an increase in the median content of Proteobacteria to 7.49% vs. 1.61% in the control group. Finally, we found that MB at a concentration of 15 mg/kg/day improved the cognitive abilities of mice, while negative correlation between the content of Deferribacteres and cognitive parameters was revealed. Our data expand the understanding of the relationship between MB, cognitive abilities, and gut microbiome in respect to the antibacterial properties of MB.

Evaluation of the effects of 0.05% sodium hypochlorite and 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate twice daily rinse on periodontal parameters and gingival crevicular fluid HSV1 and CMV levels in patients with chronic periodontitis: a multicentric study

Background

Mechanical debridement of periodontal pockets remains the mainstay of therapy in all forms of periodontitis. There is 47% greater reduction in plaque amount when sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is used as an adjunct when compared with water rinsing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 0.05% NaOCl and 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate twice daily rinse on periodontal parameters and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) HSV1 and CMV levels in chronic periodontitis.

Methods

Patients assigned to group A were prescribed 0.05% NaOCl mouthwash for twice daily rinse. Patients in group B were prescribed 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash to be used twice daily. Evaluation of periodontal parameters was done at baseline and after six months following therapy. GCF HSV1 and CMV levels were evaluated using a polymerase chain reaction.

Results

A statistically significant difference was noted in the improvement in periodontal parameters between both groups, when evaluated six months following therapy with greater reduction in group A vis-a-vis group B.

Conclusion

NaOCl when prescribed as a twice daily mouthwash can be recommended as a part of the home care regime in patients with chronic periodontitis. It is more cost-effective, easily available and can be beneficial to the troops in difficult terrains and extremes of climates, where oral healthcare facilities are not easily accessible.

Clinical and Microbiological Effects of Weekly Supragingival Irrigation with Aerosolized 0.5% Hydrogen Peroxide and Formation of Cavitation Bubbles in Gingival Tissues after This Irrigation: A Six-Month Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction

The study investigated the effect of weekly supragingival irrigation with aerosolized 0.5% hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) solution as a maintenance periodontal therapy on clinical and microbiological parameters in patients with chronic periodontitis. The other purpose was to investigate whether cavitation bubbles can penetrate not only into periodontitis-damaged tissues but also into ex vivo porcine healthy periodontal tissues.

Materials and Methods

The study included 35 systemically healthy patients with chronic periodontitis (CP). After nonsurgical periodontal debridement (NSPD), all patients were randomized into two groups: the Control group (NSDP alone, n = 18) and the Test group (NSDP plus supragingival irrigation, n = 17). Clinical (Approximal Plaque Index (API), Bleeding Index (BI), and Modified Gingival Index (MGI)) and microbiological (Polymerase Chain Reaction technology (using a micro-IDent® kit)) measurements were performed at the initial time point, 3 months, and 6 months after NSPD. The impact of supragingival irrigation on diseased gingival tissues of CP patients (n = 5) and on ex vivo porcine healthy gingival tissue samples (n = 3) was evaluated to estimate morphological changes in healthy and diseased gingival tissues.

Results

Morphological data revealed that supragingival irrigation caused the formation of cavitation bubbles in diseased gingival tissue of CP patients and in healthy porcine gingival tissues. The decrease in API, BI, and MGI scores after 6 months in the Test group significantly (p ≤ 0.01, p ≤ 0.05, and p ≤ 0.01, respectively) exceeded that in the Control group. Test group patients demonstrated a decrease in periodontal sites showing Pocket Probing Depth > 4 mm and, after 6 months, a statistically significant decrease in the proportion of periopathogenic bacteria.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of mechanical periodontal treatment combined with weekly supragingival irrigation with aerosolized 0.5% H₂O₂ solution on clinical and microbiological parameters of periodontal tissues of periodontitis patients is reliably higher than that of mechanical periodontal debridement alone. It has been found that cavitation bubbles as a result of irrigation with the aerosolized 0.5% hydrogen peroxide solution can form not only in periodontal tissues of periodontitis patients but also in ex vivo porcine healthy gingival tissues.

Primer on etiology and treatment of progressive/severe periodontitis: A systemic health perspective

Periodontology is an infectious disease-based discipline. The etiopathology of progressive/severe periodontitis includes active herpesviruses, specific bacterial pathogens, and proinflammatory cytokines. Herpesviruses and periodontopathic bacteria may interact synergistically to produce periodontal breakdown, and periodontal herpesviruses may contribute to systemic diseases. The infectious agents of severe periodontitis reside in deep pockets, furcation lesions, and inflamed gingiva, sites inaccessible by conventional (purely mechanical) surgical or nonsurgical therapy but accessible by systemic antibiotic treatment. This brief overview presents an effective anti-infective treatment of severe periodontitis, which includes systemic chemotherapy/antibiotics against herpesviruses (valacyclovir [acyclovir]) and bacterial pathogens (amoxicillin + metronidazole or ciprofloxacin + metronidazole) plus common antiseptics (povidone-iodine and sodium hypochlorite) and select ultrasonic scaling. The proposed treatment can cause a marked reduction or elimination of major periodontal pathogens, is acceptably safe, and can be carried out in minimal time with minimal cost.

The efficacy of pocket elimination/reduction compared to access flap surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To assess the efficacy and adverse effects of resective surgery compared to access flap in patients with periodontitis.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials with a follow-up ≥6 months were identified in ten databases. Screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were conducted by two reviewers. The primary outcome was probing pocket depth, and the main secondary outcome was clinical attachment level. Data on adverse events were collected. Meta-analysis was used to synthesize the findings of trials.

RESULTS

A total of 880 publications were identified. Fourteen publications from nine clinical trials met the inclusion criteria and were included for analysis. Meta-analysis was carried out using all available results. The results indicated superior pocket depth reduction following resective surgery compared to access flap after 6-12 months of follow-up (weighted mean difference 0.47 mm; confidence interval 0.7-0.24; p = .010). After 36-60 months of follow-up, no differences were found between the two treatments in pocket depth and attachment level. The prevalence of adverse effects was not different between the groups. Post-operative recession tended to be more severe for the resective approaches.

CONCLUSION

Resective surgical approach was superior to access flap in reducing pocket depth 6-12 months post-surgery, while no differences between the two modalities were found at 36-60 months of follow-up.

Is oral hygiene as important as hand hygiene during COVID-19 pandemic?

Oral hygiene is an integral part of personal hygiene practices and should not be neglected. Similar to hand hygiene, oral hygiene is essential in reducing infection from the oral cavity, and thus, its transfer to the upper and lower respiratory tract. Although there is no randomized clinical trial, oral hygiene may imply to reduce the morbidity and mortality related to coronavirus disease pandemic potentially. At present, standard oral hygiene measures consist of thorough cleaning of all surfaces of teeth, interdental areas, and tongue daily. Oral health-care providers should emphasize its importance. Thorough toothbrushing for “Two Times For Two Minutes” in a day is an easy key to remember.

Resistance to β-lactams and distribution of β-lactam resistance genes in subgingival microbiota from Spanish patients with periodontitis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze the distribution of β-lactamase genes and the multidrug resistance profiles in β-lactam-resistant subgingival bacteria from patients with periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Subgingival samples were obtained from 130 Spanish patients with generalized periodontitis stage III or IV. Samples were grown on agar plates with amoxicillin or cefotaxime and incubated in anaerobic and microaerophilic conditions. Isolates were identified to the species level by the sequencing of their 16S rRNA gene. A screening for the following β-lactamase genes was performed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique: bla_TEM, bla_SHV, bla_CTX-M, bla_CfxA, bla_CepA, bla_CblA, and bla_ampC. Additionally, multidrug resistance to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, erythromycin, and kanamycin was assessed, growing the isolates on agar plates with breakpoint concentrations of each antimicrobial.

RESULTS

β-lactam-resistant isolates were found in 83% of the patients. Seven hundred and thirty-seven isolates from 35 different genera were obtained, with Prevotella and Streptococcus being the most identified genera. bla_CfxA was the gene most detected, being observed in 24.8% of the isolates, followed by bla_TEM (12.9%). Most of the isolates (81.3%) were multidrug-resistant.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that β-lactam resistance is widespread among Spanish patients with periodontitis. Furthermore, it suggests that the subgingival commensal microbiota might be a reservoir of multidrug resistance and β-lactamase genes.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Most of the samples yielded β-lactam-resistant isolates, and 4 different groups of bla genes were detected among the isolates. Most of the isolates were also multidrug-resistant. The results show that, although β-lactams may still be effective, their future might be hindered by the presence of β-lactam-resistant bacteria and the presence of transferable bla genes.

Interventions for managing halitosis

BACKGROUND

Halitosis or bad breath is a symptom in which a noticeably unpleasant breath odour is present due to an underlying oral or systemic disease. 50% to 60% of the world population has experienced this problem which can lead to social stigma and loss of self-confidence. Multiple interventions have been tried to control halitosis ranging from mouthwashes and toothpastes to lasers. This new Cochrane Review incorporates Cochrane Reviews previously published on tongue scraping and mouthrinses for halitosis.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this review were to assess the effects of various interventions used to control halitosis due to oral diseases only. We excluded studies including patients with halitosis secondary to systemic disease and halitosis-masking interventions.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 8 April 2019), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2019, Issue 3) in the Cochrane Library (searched 8 April 2019), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 8 April 2019), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 8 April 2019). We also searched LILACS BIREME (1982 to 19 April 2019), the National Database of Indian Medical Journals (1985 to 19 April 2019), OpenGrey (1992 to 19 April 2019), and CINAHL EBSCO (1937 to 19 April 2019). The US National Institutes of Health Ongoing Trials Register ClinicalTrials.gov (8 April 2019), the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (8 April 2019), the ISRCTN Registry (19 April 2019), the Clinical Trials Registry - India (19 April 2019), were searched for ongoing trials. We also searched the cross-references of included studies and systematic reviews published on the topic. No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) which involved adults over the age of 16, and any intervention for managing halitosis compared to another or placebo, or no intervention. The active interventions or controls were administered over a minimum of one week and with no upper time limit. We excluded quasi-randomised trials, trials comparing the results for less than one week follow-up, and studies including advanced periodontitis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two pairs of review authors independently selected trials, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. We estimated mean differences (MDs) for continuous data, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 44 trials in the review with 1809 participants comparing an intervention with a placebo or a control. The age of participants ranged from 17 to 77 years. Most of the trials reported on short-term follow-up (ranging from one week to four weeks). Only one trial reported long-term follow-up (three months). Three studies were at low overall risk of bias, 16 at high overall risk of bias, and the remaining 25 at unclear overall risk of bias. We compared different types of interventions which were categorised as mechanical debridement, chewing gums, systemic deodorising agents, topical agents, toothpastes, mouthrinse/mouthwash, tablets, and combination methods. Mechanical debridement: for mechanical tongue cleaning versus no tongue cleaning, the evidence was very uncertain for the outcome dentist-reported organoleptic test (OLT) scores (MD -0.20, 95% CI -0.34 to -0.07; 2 trials, 46 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for patient-reported OLT score or adverse events. Chewing gums: for 0.6% eucalyptus chewing gum versus placebo chewing gum, the evidence was very uncertain for the outcome dentist-reported OLT scores (MD -0.10, 95% CI -0.31 to 0.11; 1 trial, 65 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for patient-reported OLT score or adverse events. Systemic deodorising agents: for 1000 mg champignon versus placebo, the evidence was very uncertain for the outcome patient-reported visual analogue scale (VAS) scores (MD -1.07, 95% CI -14.51 to 12.37; 1 trial, 40 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for dentist-reported OLT score or adverse events. Topical agents: for hinokitiol gel versus placebo gel, the evidence was very uncertain for the outcome dentist-reported OLT scores (MD -0.27, 95% CI -1.26 to 0.72; 1 trial, 18 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for patient-reported OLT score or adverse events. Toothpastes: for 0.3% triclosan toothpaste versus control toothpaste, the evidence was very uncertain for the outcome dentist-reported OLT scores (MD -3.48, 95% CI -3.77 to -3.19; 1 trial, 81 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for patient-reported OLT score or adverse events. Mouthrinse/mouthwash: for mouthwash containing chlorhexidine and zinc acetate versus placebo mouthwash, the evidence was very uncertain for the outcome dentist-reported OLT scores (MD -0.20, 95% CI -0.58 to 0.18; 1 trial, 44 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for patient-reported OLT score or adverse events. Tablets: no data were reported on key outcomes for this comparison. Combination methods: for brushing plus cetylpyridium mouthwash versus brushing, the evidence was uncertain for the outcome dentist-reported OLT scores (MD -0.48, 95% CI -0.72 to -0.24; 1 trial, 70 participants; low-certainty evidence). No data were reported for patient-reported OLT score or adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found low- to very low-certainty evidence to support the effectiveness of interventions for managing halitosis compared to placebo or control for the OLT and patient-reported outcomes tested. We were unable to draw any conclusions regarding the superiority of any intervention or concentration. Well-planned RCTs need to be conducted by standardising the interventions and concentrations.

Periodontal herpesvirus morbidity and treatment

Four billion individuals worldwide have a history of periodontitis, with the poorest people in society most affected. Periodontitis can lead to unsightly drifting of teeth and tooth loss that may interfere with the wellbeing of daily living and has also been linked to at least 57 medical diseases and disabilities. The etiology of severe periodontitis includes active herpesviruses, specific bacterial pathogens, and destructive immune responses, but herpesviruses seem to be the major pathogenic determinant. Periodontal herpesviruses that disseminate via the systemic circulation to nonoral sites may represent a major link between periodontitis and systemic diseases. Current treatment of periodontitis focuses almost exclusively on bacterial biofilm and will require revision. Periodontal therapy that targets both herpesviruses and bacterial pathogens can provide long-term clinical improvement and potentially reduces the risk of systemic diseases. Molecular diagnostic tests for periodontal pathogens may enable early microbial identification and preemptive therapy. This review details an efficient and reliable anti-infective treatment of severe periodontitis that can be carried out in minimal time with minimal cost.

Focal infection of periodontal origin

Periodontology has evolved from a predominantly mechanical to a sophisticated infectious disease-based discipline. Research has paved the way for a greater understanding of the periodontal microbiome, improvement in periodontal diagnostics and therapies, and the recognition of periodontitis being associated with more than 50 systemic diseases. The etiopathology of progressive periodontitis includes active herpesviruses, specific bacterial pathogens, and proinflammatory immune responses. This article points to a role of periodontal herpesviruses in the development of systemic diseases and proposes treatment of severe periodontitis not only to avoid tooth loss, but also to reduce the risk for systemic diseases. An efficient, safe, and reliable anti-infective treatment of severe periodontitis is presented, which targets both herpesviruses and bacterial pathogens and which can be carried out in minimal time with minimal cost.

The effects of ozone therapy on periodontal therapy: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this randomized split-mouth clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of ozone therapy on clinical and biochemical parameters of moderate to severe generalized periodontitis patients after non-surgical periodontal therapy.

METHODS

A total of 36 moderate to severe generalized periodontitis patients were included in the study. The patients were systemically healthy and 18 to 64 years of age. Periodontal parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), percentage of bleeding on probing, percentage of pockets deeper than 5 mm and clinical attachment level (CAL), and percentage of ≥3 mm CAL, were evaluated at baseline and 3 months following periodontal therapy. All participants were treated non-surgically. Topical gaseous ozone was applied into periodontal pockets twice a week for 2 weeks during active periodontal therapy. Gingival crevicular fluid pentraxin-3 (PTX-3), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) were evaluated. All statistical data were analyzed using SPSS software.

RESULTS

Total of 36 participants completed the study (18 males, 18 females). PI, GI, PD, percentage of bleeding on probing, percentage of pockets deeper than 5 mm and CAL, and percentage of ≥3 mm CAL were improved, and there were no significant differences between the two sides. All inflammatory parameters, PTX-3, Hs-CRP, and IL-1, were reduced at 3-month follow-up. Only the decrease in PTX-3 levels between baseline and 3-month follow-up was statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Ozone therapy did not have any additional effect on periodontal parameters. All cytokines were reduced after periodontal therapy. Only PTX-3 levels were significantly lower at ozone sites compared to those at the control sites.

Macrophage immunomodulation in chronic osteolytic diseases-the case of periodontitis

Periodontitis (PD) is a chronic osteolytic disease that shares pathogenic inflammatory features with other conditions associated with nonresolving inflammation. A hallmark of PD is inflammation-mediated alveolar bone loss. Myeloid cells, in particular polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) and macrophages (Mac), are essential players in PD by control of gingival biofilm pathogenicity, activation of adaptive immunity, as well as nonresolving inflammation and collateral tissue damage. Despite mounting evidence of significant innate immune implications to PD progression and healing after therapy, myeloid cell markers and targets for immune modulation have not been validated for clinical use. The remarkable plasticity of monocytes/Mac in response to local activation factors enables these cells to play central roles in inflammation and restoration of tissue homeostasis and provides opportunities for biomarker and therapeutic target discovery for management of chronic inflammatory conditions, including osteolytic diseases such as PD and arthritis. Along a wide spectrum of activation states ranging from proinflammatory to pro-resolving, Macs respond to environmental changes in a site-specific manner in virtually all tissues. This review summarizes the existing evidence on Mac immunomodulation therapies for osteolytic diseases in the broader context of conditions associated with nonresolving inflammation, and discusses osteoimmune implications of Macs in PD.

Azithromycin and erythromycin susceptibility and macrolide resistance genes in Prevotella from patients with periodontal disease

OBJECTIVES

To study oral Prevotella spp. isolated from patients with chronic periodontitis, to determine their susceptibility to azithromycin and erythromycin and to screen the presence of macrolide resistance genes therein.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Isolates with a Prevotella-like morphology were obtained from subgingival samples of 52 patients with chronic periodontitis. Each isolate was identified to the species level by sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. In 100 Prevotella spp. isolates, azithromycin and erythromycin susceptibility was determined using the E test method, and the screening of erm(A), erm(B), erm(C), erm(F), erm(G), erm(Q) and mef(A) genes was done by PCR.

RESULTS

Prevotella intermedia and Prevotella nigrescens were the most identified species (33% each). Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranges for both antibiotics were 0.016/0.032 to >256 μg/ml. MIC₅₀ values for azithromycin and erythromycin were 1.5 and 1 μg/ml, respectively, and MIC₉₀ values were >256 μg/ml for both antibiotics. Nineteen per cent of the isolates carried erm(B), and 51% carried erm(F).

CONCLUSIONS

The MIC values found were high compared to previous studies. erm(F) was greatly prevalent, and we describe for the first time the erm(B) gene in Prevotella spp. The presence of either of the genes seems to be associated with a higher degree of resistance to azithromycin and erythromycin.

Optimal management of intrabony defects: current insights

Periodontitis is the most common condition, which causes bony defects. Intrabony defects thought not as common as the horizontal bone loss pose a risk of disease progression and thus should be managed optimally; however, it does not mean all the intrabony defects can be treated and all the mobile teeth saved! But, with the advent of new biomaterials prognosis of teeth can be improved. The objective of this article is to discuss old and new concepts toward the optimal management of intrabony defects.

Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 0.2% sodium hypochlorite (Hi Wash) mouthwash with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash on plaque-induced gingivitis: A clinical trial

Background:

Bleeding gums are one of the common complaints to visit a dentist. Mechanical removal of plaque alone is not sufficient for the reduction of gingival inflammation associated with plaque. Mouthwashes are supplemented to it as a homecare product. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of 0.2% sodium hypochlorite mouthwash on plaque and gingival inflammation and to assess the clinical parameters of gingivitis patients from baseline to 21 days with the use of 0.2% sodium hypochlorite and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwashes.

Materials and Methods:

This clinical trial study included 60 patients with gingival inflammation evaluated using clinical parameters such as bleeding on probing index, plaque index, and gingival index at baseline and 21 days. Group A patients were given Hi Wash mouthwash and Group B 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash with 30 patients in each group.

Results:

The scores for clinical parameters were significantly reduced after 21 days in Group A and Group B patients, and there was a reduction in plaque-associated gingival inflammation without scaling and root planning.

Conclusions:

0.2% sodium hypochlorite mouthwash is as effective as 0.2% chlorhexidine for the treatment of gingivitis as it is an adjunct to mechanical plaque removal in terms of safety, less side effects, less staining and can be used as a routine mouthwash.

Periodontitis: facts, fallacies and the future

This volume of Periodontology 2000 represents the 25th anniversary of the Journal, and uses the occasion to assess important advancements in periodontology over the past quarter-century as well as the hurdles that remain. Periodontitis is defined by pathologic loss of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The disease involves complex dynamic interactions among active herpesviruses, specific bacterial pathogens and destructive immune responses. Periodontal diagnostics is currently based on clinical rather than etiologic criteria, and provides limited therapeutic guidance. Periodontal causative treatment consists of scaling, antiseptic rinses and occasionally systemic antibiotics, and surgical intervention has been de-emphasized, except perhaps for the most advanced types of periodontitis. Plastic surgical therapy includes soft-tissue grafting to cover exposed root surfaces and bone grafting to provide support for implants. Dental implants are used to replace severely diseased or missing teeth, but implant overuse is of concern. The utility of laser treatment for periodontitis remains unresolved. Host modulation and risk-factor modification therapies may benefit select patient groups. Patient self-care is a critical part of periodontal health care, and twice-weekly oral rinsing with 0.10-0.25% sodium hypochlorite constitutes a valuable adjunct to conventional anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis treatments. A link between periodontal herpesviruses and systemic diseases is a strong biological plausibility. In summary, research during the past 25 years has significantly changed our concepts of periodontitis pathobiology and has produced more-effective and less-costly therapeutic options.

Nonsurgical and surgical treatment of periodontitis: how many options for one disease?

Treatment of periodontitis aims at preventing further disease progression with the intentions to reduce the risk of tooth loss, minimize symptoms and perception of the disease, possibly restore lost periodontal tissue and provide information on maintaining a healthy periodontium. Therapeutic intervention includes introduction of techniques to change behavior, such as: individually tailored oral-hygiene instructions; a smoking-cessation program; dietary adjustment; subgingival instrumentation to remove plaque and calculus; local and systemic pharmacotherapy; and various types of surgery. No single treatment option has shown superiority, and virtually all types of mechanical periodontal treatment benefit from adjunctive antimicrobial chemotherapy. Periodontal treatment, because of the chronic nature of periodontitis, is a lifelong commitment to intricate oral-hygiene techniques, which, when properly implemented, will minimize the risk of disease initiation and progression.

Adult periodontitis treated with a new device for subgingival lavage-a randomized controlled clinical trial using a split-mouth design

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate in patients with untreated adult periodontitis, the effect of treatment with a novel pocket irrigator/evacuator device (IED) compared to conventional subgingival debridement (CPT), both provided during the initial phase of active periodontal therapy.

METHODS

This study was an examiner-blind, randomized controlled clinical trial using a split-mouth design. Systemically healthy patients with adult periodontitis were selected. Full-mouth probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival bleeding on pocket probing scores (BOPP), gingival recession (REC) and dental plaque (PI) were assessed at baseline. All participants received oral hygiene instructions and supragingival prophylaxis including polishing. In 2 randomly assigned contra-lateral quadrants, approximal sites were irrigated with the IED, whereas in the other quadrants, CPT was provided. The CPT consisted of subgingival debridement using ultrasonic devices followed by the use of hand instruments. At 3 months post-treatment, the clinical parameters were re-assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients met the inclusion criteria and were willing to participate. At 3 months post-treatment, the PPD and BOPP had significantly improved for both treatment modalities. Pockets of ≥5 mm reduced by 0.64 mm in the IED group (P < .001), compared to a reduction of 0.82 mm for the CPT group (P < .001). With respect to the primary outcome parameter (PPD) and BI, the results with the IED were less pronounced. Between the test and control groups, no significant differences were observed for REC and PI.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral hygiene instructions, supragingival prophylaxis and subgingival lavage with the IED resulted in a significant reduction in PPD and BOPP. However, the effect does not reach the results of CPT which included the subgingival use of ultrasonic and hand instruments.

What is the influence of tonsillectomy on the level of periodontal pathogens on the tongue dorsum and in periodontal pockets

BACKGROUND

For periodontal treatment, the full mouth disinfection approach suggests disinfection of oral soft tissues, such as tongue and tonsils concomitant to scaling and root planning since patients might benefit from treatment of these oral niches either. Periodontopathogenes in tonsillar tissue support this hypothesis. This prospective controlled clinical study investigated the change in the oral flora of patients who underwent tonsillectomy. Pockets were tested for eleven bacterial species before and six weeks after the surgical intervention.

METHODS

Fifty generally healthy adults were included in this study. The test group consisted of 25 patients with tonsillectomy. The control group included 25 patients with otorhinolarynologic surgery without involvement of the oral cavity. Clinical parameters such as probing pocket depth, bleeding-on-probing index and plaque index were registered the evening before surgery. Also bacterial samples from the gingival sulcus and dorsum linguae were taken, and an additional sample from the removed tonsils in the test group. Six weeks after the intervention microbial samples of pockets and tongue were taken again. Data were tested for significant differences using Wilcoxon rank and Whitney-u-test.

RESULTS

No relevant intra- or intergroup differences were found for the change of the eleven investigated species.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results of the present study, tonsillectomy does not seem to have an immediate relevant effect on the bacterial flora of tongue or periodontium. This study design was approved by the ethical committee of Zurich (KEK-ZH-Nr.2013-0419).

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The trial was retrospectively registered in the German Clinical Trials Register ( DRK00014077 ) on February 20, 2018.

Supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) for maintaining the dentition in adults treated for periodontitis

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis is a bacterially-induced, chronic inflammatory disease that destroys the connective tissues and bone that support teeth. Active periodontal treatment aims to reduce the inflammatory response, primarily through eradication of bacterial deposits. Following completion of treatment and arrest of inflammation, supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) is employed to reduce the probability of re-infection and progression of the disease; to maintain teeth without pain, excessive mobility or persistent infection in the long term, and to prevent related oral diseases.According to the American Academy of Periodontology, SPT should include all components of a typical dental recall examination, and importantly should also include periodontal re-evaluation and risk assessment, supragingival and subgingival removal of bacterial plaque and calculus, and re-treatment of any sites showing recurrent or persistent disease. While the first four points might be expected to form part of the routine examination appointment for periodontally healthy patients, the inclusion of thorough periodontal evaluation, risk assessment and subsequent treatment - normally including mechanical debridement of any plaque or calculus deposits - differentiates SPT from routine care.Success of SPT has been reported in a number of long-term, retrospective studies. This review aimed to assess the evidence available from randomised controlled trials (RCTs).

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) in the maintenance of the dentition of adults treated for periodontitis.

SEARCH METHODS

Cochrane Oral Health's Information Specialist searched the following databases: Cochrane Oral Health's Trials Register (to 8 May 2017), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (the Cochrane Library, 2017, Issue 5), MEDLINE Ovid (1946 to 8 May 2017), and Embase Ovid (1980 to 8 May 2017). The US National Institutes of Health Trials Registry (ClinicalTrials.gov) and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched for ongoing trials. No restrictions were placed on the language or date of publication when searching the electronic databases.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating SPT versus monitoring only or alternative approaches to mechanical debridement; SPT alone versus SPT with adjunctive interventions; different approaches to or providers of SPT; and different time intervals for SPT delivery.We excluded split-mouth studies where we considered there could be a risk of contamination.Participants must have completed active periodontal therapy at least six months prior to randomisation and be enrolled in an SPT programme. Trials must have had a minimum follow-up period of 12 months.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened search results to identify studies for inclusion, assessed the risk of bias in included studies and extracted study data. When possible, we calculated mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for continuous variables. Two review authors assessed the quality of evidence for each comparison and outcome using GRADE criteria.

MAIN RESULTS

We included four trials involving 307 participants aged 31 to 85 years, who had been previously treated for moderate to severe chronic periodontitis. Three studies compared adjuncts to mechanical debridement in SPT versus debridement only. The adjuncts were local antibiotics in two studies (one at high risk of bias and one at low risk) and photodynamic therapy in one study (at unclear risk of bias). One study at high risk of bias compared provision of SPT by a specialist versus general practitioner. We did not identify any RCTs evaluating the effects of SPT versus monitoring only, or of providing SPT at different time intervals, or that compared the effects of mechanical debridement using different approaches or technologies.No included trials measured our primary outcome 'tooth loss'; however, studies evaluated signs of inflammation and potential periodontal disease progression, including bleeding on probing (BoP), clinical attachment level (CAL) and probing pocket depth (PPD).There was no evidence of a difference between SPT delivered by a specialist versus a general practitioner for BoP or PPD at 12 months (very low-quality evidence). This study did not measure CAL or adverse events.Due to heterogeneous outcome reporting, it was not possible to combine data from the two studies comparing mechanical debridement with or without the use of adjunctive local antibiotics. Both studies found no evidence of a difference between groups at 12 months (low to very low-quality evidence). There were no adverse events in either study.The use of adjunctive photodynamic therapy did not demonstrate evidence of benefit compared to mechanical debridement only (very low-quality evidence). Adverse events were not measured.The quality of the evidence is low to very low for these comparisons. Future research is likely to change the findings, therefore the results should be interpreted with caution.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there is insufficient evidence to determine the superiority of different protocols or adjunctive strategies to improve tooth maintenance during SPT. No trials evaluated SPT versus monitoring only. The evidence available for the comparisons evaluated is of low to very low quality, and hampered by dissimilarities in outcome reporting. More trials using uniform definitions and outcomes are required to address the objectives of this review.

Microbial colonization of the periodontal pocket and its significance for periodontal therapy

The aim of this paper was to evaluate strategies for periodontal therapy from the perspective of periodontal disease being a consequence of microbial colonization of the periodontal pocket environment. In classic bacterial infections the diversity of the microbiota decreases as the disease develops. In most cases of periodontitis, however, the diversity of the flora increases. Most incriminating bacteria are thought to harm tissues significantly only if present in high numbers over prolonged periods of time. Clinical trials have repeatedly demonstrated that scaling and root planing, a procedure that aims to remove subgingival bacterial deposits by scraping on the tooth surface within the periodontal pocket, is effective. At present, for the therapy of any form of periodontal disease, there exists no protocol with proven superiority, in terms of efficiency or effectiveness, over scaling and root planing plus systemic amoxicillin and metronidazole. Some exponents advocate rationing these drugs for patients with a specific microbial profile. However, the evidence for any benefit of bacteriology-assisted clinical protocols is unsatisfactory. Treated sites are subject to recolonization with a microbiota similar to that present before therapy. The degree and speed of recolonization depends on the treatment protocol, the distribution patterns of periodontal microorganisms elsewhere in the oral cavity and the quality of the patient's oral hygiene. To limit the use of antibiotics and to avoid accumulation of harmful effects by repeated therapy, further efforts must be made to optimize procedures addressing the microbial colonization and recolonization of the periodontal pocket.

The periodontal pocket

Periodontal disease is synonymous with the presence of periodontal pockets, and very often the clinical success of periodontal therapy is based on periodontal pocket depth reduction. Therefore, in the fields of periodontology and implant dentistry, significant research effort has been placed on the etiopathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal/peri-implant disease and as a consequence on pocket pathology. In this volume of Periodontology 2000, the in-depth reviews include topics ranging from preclinical models, anatomy and structure of tissues, and molecular and bacterial components, to treatments of pockets around teeth and implants. These reviews aim to provide the readers with current and future perspectives on the different areas of research into the periodontal pocket.

Multi-omics Analysis of Periodontal Pocket Microbial Communities Pre- and Posttreatment

Periodontal disease affects the majority of adults worldwide and has been linked to numerous systemic diseases. Despite decades of research, the reasons for the substantial differences among periodontitis patients in disease incidence, progressivity, and response to treatment remain poorly understood. While deep sequencing of oral bacterial communities has greatly expanded our comprehension of the microbial diversity of periodontal disease and identified associations with healthy and disease states, predicting treatment outcomes remains elusive. Our results suggest that combining multiple omics approaches enhances the ability to differentiate among disease states and determine differential effects of treatment, particularly with the addition of metabolomic information. Furthermore, multi-omics analysis of biofilm community instability indicated that these approaches provide new tools for investigating the ecological dynamics underlying the progressive periodontal disease process.

Periodontitis is a polymicrobial infectious disease that causes breakdown of the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. We employed a meta-omics approach that included microbial 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, shotgun metagenomics, and tandem mass spectrometry to analyze sub- and supragingival biofilms in adults with chronic periodontitis pre- and posttreatment with 0.25% sodium hypochlorite. Microbial samples were collected with periodontal curettes from 3- to 12-mm-deep periodontal pockets at the baseline and at 2 weeks and 3 months. All data types showed high interpersonal variability, and there was a significant correlation between phylogenetic diversity and pocket depth at the baseline and a strong correlation (rho = 0.21; P = 0.008) between metabolite diversity and maximum pocket depth (MPD). Analysis of subgingival baseline samples (16S rRNA and shotgun metagenomics) found positive correlations between abundances of particular bacterial genera and MPD, including Porphyromonas, Treponema, Tannerella, and Desulfovibrio species and unknown taxon SHD-231. At 2 weeks posttreatment, we observed an almost complete turnover in the bacterial genera (16S rRNA) and species (shotgun metagenomics) correlated with MPD. Among the metabolites detected, the medians of the 20 most abundant metabolites were significantly correlated with MPD pre- and posttreatment. Finally, tests of periodontal biofilm community instability found markedly higher taxonomic instability in patients who did not improve posttreatment than in patients who did improve (UniFrac distances; t = −3.59; P = 0.002). Interestingly, the opposite pattern occurred in the metabolic profiles (Bray-Curtis; t = 2.42; P = 0.02). Our results suggested that multi-omics approaches, and metabolomics analysis in particular, could enhance treatment prediction and reveal patients most likely to improve posttreatment.

IMPORTANCE Periodontal disease affects the majority of adults worldwide and has been linked to numerous systemic diseases. Despite decades of research, the reasons for the substantial differences among periodontitis patients in disease incidence, progressivity, and response to treatment remain poorly understood. While deep sequencing of oral bacterial communities has greatly expanded our comprehension of the microbial diversity of periodontal disease and identified associations with healthy and disease states, predicting treatment outcomes remains elusive. Our results suggest that combining multiple omics approaches enhances the ability to differentiate among disease states and determine differential effects of treatment, particularly with the addition of metabolomic information. Furthermore, multi-omics analysis of biofilm community instability indicated that these approaches provide new tools for investigating the ecological dynamics underlying the progressive periodontal disease process.

Effect of azithromycin on a red complex polymicrobial biofilm

Azithromycin has recently gained popularity for the treatment of periodontal disease, despite sparse literature supporting efficiency in treating periodontal bacterial biofilms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of azithromycin on biofilms comprised of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia in comparison to an amoxicillin and metronidazole combination. P. gingivalis W50, T. denticola ATCC35405, and T. forsythia ATCC43037 grown under anaerobic conditions at 37°C were aliquoted into 96-well flat-bottom plates in different combinations with addition of azithromycin or amoxicillin + metronidazole at various concentrations. For the biofilm assay, the plates were incubated at 37°C anaerobically for 48 h, after which the biofilms were stained with crystal violet and measured for absorbance at AU₆₂₀. In this model, polymicrobial biofilms of P. gingivalis + T. denticola, P. gingivalis + T. forsythia, and T. denticola + T. forsythia were cultured. Combination of all three bacteria enhanced biofilm biomass. Azithromycin demonstrated a minimal biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) of 10.6 mg/L, while the amoxicillin + metronidazole combination was more effective in inhibiting biofilm formation with a MBIC of 1.63 mg/L. Polymicrobial biofilm formation was demonstrated by combination of all three red complex bacteria. Azithromycin was ineffective in preventing biofilm formation within a clinically achievable concentration, whereas the combination of amoxicillin and metronidazole was more effective for this purpose.

Lack of adjunctive effect of 0.1% sodium hypochlorite mouthwash combined to full-mouth ultrasonic debridement on supragingival plaque, gingival inflammation, and subgingival microbiota: A randomized placebo-controlled 6-month trial

To test the adjunctive effect of 0.1% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) mouthwash combined to full‐mouth ultrasonic debridement (FMUD) on reducing supragingival plaque, gingival inflammation, and microbial pathogens. In this 6‐month double‐blinded randomized clinical trial, individuals with gingivitis were assigned to test (n = 16) or placebo group (n = 16) and received FMUD followed by rinsing with 0.1% NaOCl (test) or distilled water (placebo), respectively, twice a day for 1 month. Full‐mouth periodontal examination was performed at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months posttherapy, and subgingival plaque samples were obtained at the same time points and analysed for their composition by checkerboard. Differences between groups over time were examined by Student t test, Mann–Whitney, generalized linear model, and Friedman and chi‐square tests. Both therapeutic protocols resulted in significant clinical improvement in periodontal parameters over time, except for probing depth and attachment level, which had a slight mean increase of 0.2 mm (p < .01). No significant differences between groups were observed for any clinical parameter (p > .05). Most species (>65%) decreased similarly in levels in both groups over time. Significant reductions in the microbial complexes were seen mainly at 1 and 3 months, but they returned to baseline levels in both groups, except for the red and yellow complexes, and other oral species, which were kept in low levels at 6 months (p < .05). A 0.1% NaOCl mouthwash did not provide additional benefits to FMUD in reducing supragingival plaque, gingivitis, and/or microbial pathogens.

Effectiveness of a pre-procedural mouthwash in reducing bacteria in dental aerosols: randomized clinical trial

The aim of this randomized, single blinded clinical trial was to evaluate the effect of a pre-procedural mouthwash containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), zinc lactate (Zn) and sodium fluoride (F) in the reduction of viable bacteria in oral aerosol after a dental prophylaxis with ultrasonic scaler. Sixty systemically healthy volunteers receiving dental prophylaxis were randomly assigned to one of the following experimental groups (15 per group): (i) rinsing with 0.075% CPC, 0.28% Zn and 0.05% F (CPC+Zn+F), (ii) water or (iii) 0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX), and (iv) no rinsing. Viable bacteria were collected from different locations in the dental office on enriched TSA plates and anaerobically incubated for 72 hours. The colonies were counted and species were then identified by Checkerboard DNA-DNA Hybridization. The total number of colony-forming units (CFUs) detected in the aerosols from volunteers who rinsed with CPC+Zn+F or CHX was statistically significantly (p<0.05) lower than of those subjects who did not rinse or who rinsed with water. When all locations were considered together, the aerosols from the CPC+Zn+F and CHX groups showed, respectively, 70% and 77% fewer CFUs than those from the No Rinsing group and 61% and 70% than those from the Water group. The mean proportions of bacterial species from the orange complex were statistically significantly (p<0.05) lower in aerosols from the CPC+Zn+F and CHX groups compared with the others two groups. In conclusion, the mouthwash containing CPC+Zn+F, is effective in reducing viable bacteria in oral aerosol after a dental prophylaxis with ultrasonic scaler.