A Systematic Review on the Effects of the Chlorhexidine Chip When Used as an Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planing in the Treatment of Chronic Periodontitis

Evaluation of photosensitizer-containing superhydrophobic surfaces for the antibacterial treatment of periodontal biofilms

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a promising approach to control biofilms involved in periodontal diseases. However, certain challenges, such as staining of teeth, preferential interaction of photosensitizer (PS) with Gram-positive versus Gram-negative bacteria, and insufficient oxygen in hypoxic periodontal pockets have presented barriers to its use in the clinic. To overcome these challenges, a novel superhydrophobic (SH) film that generates airborne singlet oxygen has been developed. The SH-aPDT approach isolates the PS onto a topologically rough solid SH film on which channels allow air to diffuse to the PS surface, thus ensuring sufficient oxygen supply. Upon illumination, gas phase singlet oxygen (¹O₂) is produced and diffuses from the SH surface to the underlying biofilm. The killing efficacy was assessed as a function of transmitted fluence (17.9-89.5 J/cm²) and chorin e6 loading (96-1110 nmol/cm²) by counting of colony forming units, biofilm metabolism by XTT and confocal microscopy. The decrease in viability of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in a multi-species biofilm was found to be linearly dependent on the fluence as well as the loading of the PS up to 71.6 J/cm² when 1110 nmols/cm² of chlorin e6 was used. A > 4.6 log bacterial reduction was observed under these conditions (p < 0.05). This novel SH-aPDT approach shows promise as an effective method to disinfect multi-species bacterial biofilms associated with periodontal disease and will be evaluated in animal models in future studies.

Treatment of residual pockets using an oscillating chitosan device versus regular curettes alone-A randomized, feasibility parallel-arm clinical trial

BACKGROUND

A brush made of chitosan has shown to be an effective and harmless device for non-surgical treatment of mild to moderate peri-implantitis. To date, no study has evaluated the use of a chitosan brush in the non-surgical treatment of residual pockets in periodontal treatment.

METHODS

Seventy-eight patients with periodontitis were included in this multicenter, randomized, examiner-blind clinical trial of 6 months duration. Patients with residual probing pocket depth (PPD) of ≥5 mm and ≤7 mm following previous active periodontal treatment were included. Patients were assigned either subgingival treatment with curettes (control) or an oscillating chitosan brush (test). Changes in bleeding on probing (BoP) and PPD between baseline and terminal evaluation at 6 months were evaluated.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in both PPD and BoP was seen within both groups. There was no significant difference in BoP between test and control groups after 6 months, but the reduction in PPD was significantly improved in the test group (P ≤ 0.01). The combined outcome of no BOP and PPD ≤4 mm was significantly better in the test group (P ≤ 0.01). No adverse reactions were seen.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of residual periodontal pockets (PPD = 5 to 7 mm) with a chitosan brush disclosed equal or better clinical results as compared to regular curettes. This study supports that a chitosan brush can be used for subgingival biofilm removal and soft tissue curretage in the treatment of periodontitis.

Use of chlorhexidine chip after scaling and root planning on periodontal disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective

This systematic review aims to assess the efficacy chlorhexidine chip as an adjunctive therapy of scaling and root planning on periodontal disease treatment.

Material and methods

This study follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA) and was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42019148221). The search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Cochrane databases until April 2020. The PICO question was: “Is the chlorhexidine chip (CHX) effective as an adjunctive therapy of scaling and root planning on periodontal disease treatment?”. Inclusion criteria involved: randomized controlled clinical trials, with a minimum of 15 patients included on the sample and each patient has two sites of probing depth of ≥5 mm; The minimum follow up was at least 1 months of follow-up and the outcomes present in the studies probing depth (PD), plaque index (PI) and clinical attachment level (CAL) after scaling and root planning (SRP).

Results

After searching the databases, 13 articles were selected for qualitative and 8 for quantitative analysis. Were included 427 patients, with a mean age of 45.6 years. The results shown that the association of chlorhexidine chips to scaling and root planning reduce periodontal pocket depths (P < 0.00001; MD −0.77 [CI −1.0 to −0.55]; I² = 23%, P = 0.24), gain on the clinical attachment level (P < 0.0001; MD −0.57 [CI −0.86 to −0.27]; I² = 33%, P = 0.18P < 0.0001) and reduction on plaque index (P = 0.04; MD −0.23 [CI −0.45 to −0.01]; I² = 91%, P < 0.00001).

Conclusions

Thus, we can conclude that chlorhexidine chip when used associated to scaling and root planning promoted a significant improvement the reduction of periodontal diseases.

Current uses of chlorhexidine for management of oral disease: a narrative review

OBJECTIVES

Chlorhexidine (CHX) is a commonly used antiseptic mouthwash, used by dental practitioners and the public, due to its antimicrobial effects. The aim of this article was to provide a narrative review of current antimicrobial uses of CHX relevant to dentistry in the context of oral diseases, highlighting need for further studies to support its safe and appropriate use.

STUDY SELECTION, DATA AND SOURCES

Randomised controlled trials, systematic reviews and national (UK and US) guidelines were consulted where available, with search terms for each subject category entered into MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar and the Cochrane database.

RESULTS

Some evidence existed to support adjunctive short-term use of CHX to manage dental plaque, and reduce clinical symptoms of gingivitis, dry socket, as well as reduce aerosolisation of bacteria. However, use must be weighed alongside the less desirable effects of CHX, including extrinsic staining of teeth, antimicrobial resistance to antiseptic agents and the rare, but fatal, allergic reactions to CHX. Conversely, evidence for the effectiveness of chlorhexidine to manage or prevent periodontitis, dental caries, necrotising periodontal diseases, peri-implantitis, and infections associated with extraction and aerosolised viruses remains less certain.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of CHX in dentistry and oral healthcare continues to be widespread and thus it is important that dental practitioners understand that, based on its differential mechanisms of action on different microbes, appropriate clinical and dental use of CHX should be oral disease specific. However, further scientific and clinical research is required before full recommendations can be made.

Effect of chlorhexidine chip as an adjunct in non-surgical management of periodontal pockets: a meta-analysis

Background

The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the difference in treatment outcomes between sub-gingival placement of chlorhexidine chip (CHX chip) in adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) and SRP alone for the management of periodontal pockets in patients suffering from chronic periodontitis.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE (PubMed), SCOPUS and CENTRAL databases and identified 15 randomized clinical trials published within the last decade (2007–2019): 9 with split-mouth design and 6 with parallel study design. We extracted data and performed both qualitative and quantitative syntheses. The primary outcomes assessed were gain in clinical attachment level (CAL), reduction in probing pocket depth (PPD), improvement in gingival inflammation, and results of microbiological assays.

Results

We used meta-analysis plots to assess all the clinical outcomes. The mean differences in PPD reductions at 1 month (MD 0.63), 3 months (MD 0.69), and 6 months (MD 0.75); and the CAL gains at 1 month (MD 0.54), 3 months (MD 0.64), and 6 months (MD 0.68) showed more favorable responses in sites treated with the CHX chip as an adjuvant to SRP, than in sites treated with SRP alone.

Conclusion

SRP with adjunctive CHX chips showed better clinical outcomes than SRP alone for the management of periodontal pockets in patients with chronic periodontitis.

Various Treatment Modalities in Aggressive Periodontitis

This is a case report of an 18-year-old female diagnosed with localized aggressive periodontitis. Following basic scaling and root planing, flap surgery was performed in all the four quadrants using various regenerative materials. A follow-up of 2½ years shows improvement in clinical and radiographic parameters, with no recurrence of the disease process.

Treatment of Peri-Implant Mucositis with Repeated Application of Chlorhexidine Chips or Gel during Supportive Therapy - A Randomized Clinical Trial

Running head

Peri-implant maintenance with CHX

Abstract

Background: To assess the effect of chlorhexidine (CHX) chip application in patients with peri-implant mucositis as compared to CHX gel application. Methods: In peri-implant sites with mucositis, CHX gel was applied in the control group (GC) and CHX chips in the test group (CC) at baseline and after three months. At baseline and after six months, peri-implant pocket depths (PPD), bleeding-on-probing (BOP) and activated matrix metalloproteinase-8 (aMMP8) were assessed. Longitudinal changes were tested for inter-group differences. Results: Thirty-two patients were treated. BOP was more reduced (p = 0.006) in CC than in GC, with means and standard deviations of 46 ± 28% and 17 ± 27%, respectively. PPD was more reduced (p = 0.002) in CC than in GC with 0.65 ± 0.40 mm and 0.18 ± 0.32 mm, respectively. Regarding BOP, the percentages of improved, unchanged and worsened sites accounted for 32%, 61% and 7% in GC and 46%, 53% and 1% in CC, respectively. For probing pocket depth, the according values were 26%, 66% and 8% (GC) versus 57%, 38% and 5% (CC). Conclusions: During supportive therapy, repeated CHX chip application might resolve marginal peri-implant inflammation in terms of bleeding better than CHX gel.

Efficacy of Acacia arabica gum as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: A randomized controlled clinical trial

Aim

The aim of the present study was to explore the adjunctive use of Acacia arabica gel in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Methods

Single centre, randomised, triple blind, controlled trial on mild to moderate chronic periodontitis patients; Group I (SRP + Acacia arabica, n = 40) and Group II (SRP + placebo, n = 40); were analysed for clinical improvements in periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment levels (CAL) at baseline, 15 and 90 days on application of gels. Gingival index and plaque index were assessed as secondary parameters.

Results

Statistically significant PPD reduction (p < .05) and CAL gain (p < .05) was observed with use of Acacia arabica gel. The reduction in sites with moderate PPD was observed more among Group I than Group II and the difference was statistically significant (p = .001). Secondary outcome variables; Plaque Index and Gingival Index showed better resolution with Acacia arabica gel.

Conclusion

Acacia arabica leads to better clinical outcomes in patients with mild to moderate chronic periodontitis with effective antiplaque and anti-gingivitis action. It may be recommended adjunct to SRP for maintenance in patients with mild to moderate chronic periodontitis.

An Injectable System for Local and Sustained Release of Antimicrobial Agents in the Periodontal Pocket

Periodontitis treatments usually require local administration of antimicrobial drugs with the aim to reduce the bacterial load inside the periodontal pocket. Effective pharmaceutical treatments may require sustained local drug release for several days in the site of interest. Currently available solutions are still not able to fulfill the clinical need for high-quality treatments, mainly in terms of release profiles and patients' comfort. This work aims to fill this gap through the development of an in situ gelling system, capable to achieve controlled and sustained release of antimicrobial agents for medium-to-long-term treatments. The system is composed of micrometer-sized β-cyclodextrin-based hydrogel (bCD-Jef-MPs), featured by a strong hydrophilic character, suspended in a synthetic block-co-polymer solution (Poloxamer 407), which is capable to undergo rapid thermally induced sol-gel phase transition at body temperature. The chemical structure of bCD-Jef-MPs was confirmed by cross-correlating data from Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, swelling test, and degradation kinetics. The thermally induced sol-gel phase transition is demonstrated by rheometric tests. The effectiveness of the described system to achieve sustained release of antimicrobial agents is demonstrated in vitro, using chlorhexidine digluconate as a drug model. The results achieved in this work disclose the potential of the mentioned system in effectively treating periodontitis lesions.

The clinical and metabolic effects of subgingival application of xanthan-based chlorhexidine gel in Type 2 diabetic patients with chronic periodontitis

Background:

There is a two-way relationship between periodontal disease and diabetes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and metabolic effects of a xanthan-based chlorhexidine (CHX) gel used as an adjunct to nonsurgical periodontal therapy in Type II diabetic patients with chronic periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty-eight diabetic patients with moderate to advanced periodontitis and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥6% were selected. The test group (n = 34) received scaling and root planning (SRP) plus xanthan-based CHX gel. The control group (n = 34) received single SRP. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and HbA1c tests were done at the baseline and after 3 and 6 months. Data from the study were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean ± standard deviation and frequency), ANOVA test by SPSS.15 software (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL, USA). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Patients in test group exhibited a decrease in FBS from the baseline (227 ± 64.97) to the 3 and 6 months follow-up (208 ± 61.95 and 201 ± 61.33; P < 0.001). HbA1cb levels decreased from 7.72 ± 0.99 to 6.20 ± 0.97 and 6.06 ± 1.04 after 3 and 6 months follow-up (P < 0.001), respectively. Reduction of FBS and HbA1c was statistically significant after 3 and 6 months in the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Considering the limitations of this study, the application of CHX gel might improve the effects of nonsurgical periodontal treatment in diabetic patients with periodontitis.

Different methods for subgingival application of chlorhexidine in the treatment of patients with chronic periodontitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical efficacy of different chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) preparations applied subgingivally as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 120 periodontal pockets was included in this randomized, controlled, split mouth designed study. According to protocols used in treatment, periodontal pockets were assigned to experimental and control groups as follows: CHX solution as an addition to SRP versus control SRP group; CHX gel as an addition to SRP versus control SRP; CHX chip as an addition to SRP versus control SRP group. Following clinical parameters were recorded at baseline, one and three months after the baseline: plaque index (PI), probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding index (BI) and clinical attachment level (CAL).

RESULTS

The most significant improvements were found concerning PI in CHX solution with SRP and CHX gel with SRP groups over controls at one month recall, as well as concerning BI and PPD in CHX chip with SRP group over SRP alone at three-month recall.

CONCLUSION

Results of this study favour combination therapy using CHX chip as an adjunct to SRP due to greater improvements in BI and PPD compared to those obtained by SRP alone in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Effect of chlorhexidine chip in the treatment of chronic periodontitis

AIMS

The evaluation of clinical and specific microbiological changes associated with chlorhexidine chip in the chronic periodontitis patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 chronic periodontitis patients (aged 20-65 years) having pocket depth of ≥5 mm in molar teeth were selected and randomly divided into following treatment groups: Group 1 - Scaling and root planning (SRP), Group 2 - SRP along with chlorhexidine chip and Group 3 - Only chlorhexidine chip. The clinical and microbial parameters were recorded at baseline and 1 and 3 months post-treatment as above. Benzoyl-DL-arginine-naphthylamide (BANA) chair side test was used for estimation of specific microbiota.

RESULTS

Gingival index, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level scores in selected teeth within the groups at different time intervals was significantly (P < 0.001) different. Although, the comparison between groups for specific microbiota in selected sites at different intervals was not statistically significant at baseline and 1 month, it reached statistical significance at 3(rd) month post-treatment. Although significant reductions in percentage of BANA positive sites were observed in all three groups, the Group 2 had significantly greater percentage of BANA negative sites.

CONCLUSION

Local drug delivery using chlorhexidine chip enhances the benefit of SRP in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Chlorhexidine chip in the treatment of chronic periodontitis - a clinical study

AIM

The aim of this study was to clinically evaluate the use of biodegradable chlorhexidine chip when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of moderate to severe periodontitis patients. The study also intended to compare the combined therapy (SRP and Chlorhexidine chip) with chlorhexidine chip alone in individuals with periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen patients with three sites having a probing depth of 5-8mm were considered for the study. Sites were numbered 1, 2, 3 randomly. The clinical parameters assessed were the Plaque Index (PI), gingival index (GI), Bleeding on probing (BOP), Clinical attachment level (CAL) and Probing pocket depth (PPD). Following baseline evaluation, on two sites scaling and root planing (SRP) was performed, no treatment was carried out in the third site. Chlorhexidine chips were placed on one site with SRP and another without SRP. A periodontal pack was placed on the site to prevent dislodgement of the CHX chip. Clinical parameters were recorded at baseline, one month and three months. Duration of the study was for three months.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

T-test and Analysis of variance (ANOVA) has been carried out in the present study.

RESULTS

All three groups presented with an improvement in the clinical parameters compared to baseline. There was no statistically significant difference between the SRP and SRP + CHIP group in all parameters. There was a significant difference when these two groups were compared to the chip alone group. The mean reductions in PPD were 2.8mm (SRP group), 2.6 (SRP+CHIP group), 0.8 (chip alone group) The mean gain in CAL were 2.8mm (SRP group), 2.5 (SRP+CHIP group), 0.7 (chip alone group). Reduction in bleeding on probing were significant for the SRP and SRP +CHIP group but not for the chip alone group.

CONCLUSION

The CHX chip did not provide any clinical benefit beyond that achieved with conventional scaling and rootplaning after a three month period.

Diagnosis and anti-infective therapy of periodontitis

Periodontal diseases (gingivitis and periodontitis) are chronic bacterial infections with a remarkably high prevalence and morbidity. Periodontitis, in contrast to gingivitis, is not reversible, is associated with certain bacterial species and affects all of the soft tissue and bone that support teeth. Among the periodontal pathogens, species, such as Aggregatibacter (Actinobacillus) actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythensis, and several forms of uncultivable spirochetes play the major role in the pathogenesis. In severe chronic, recurrent and especially aggressive forms of periodontitis, diagnosis of the species involved and, whenever possible, an optimized evidence-based antimicrobial treatment is indicated. In order to monitor alarming bacterial changes in the periodontal pocket, several techniques, namely microscopy, culture, immunoassays, enzyme tests and DNA-based techniques, have been established and the methods are described in the first part of this review. In the second part, the selection and use of locally delivered (topical) and systemic antibiotics used adjunctively in periodontal therapy are discussed.

Efficacy of xanthan based chlorhexidine gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in treatment of the chronic periodontitis

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of locally delivered xanthan-based Chlosite^® gel as an adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing in treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

In a randomized controlled clinical study, 30 patients were selected. Pocket depth between 5 and 7 mm was selected and each patient had two sites on the same side of the mouth. A total of 30 control sites were scaled and root planed and 30 test sites were scaled and root planed and Chlosite^® gel was added. The clinical parameters, probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI) and bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival index were recorded at baseline, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months.

Statistical Analysis:

Paired/unpaired t-test was used, significance was placed at 5% level of significance, i.e., P < 0.05 was considered as a significant.

Results:

From baseline to a period of 6 months, significant difference was found between test and control group for PD, CAL, PI and BOP, P value being PD (P = 0.002), CAL index (P = 0.014), respectively.

Conclusion:

Subgingival injection of xanthan-based Chlosite^® gel adjunct with scaling and root planing appeared to cause significant improvement compared with scaling and root planing alone in persons with chronic periodontitis.

Homeopathic prescribing for chronic and acute periodontal conditions in 3 dental practices in the UK

INTRODUCTION

This investigation extends our previous dental data collection pilot study with the following main aims: to gain insight into the periodontal complaints that dentists in the UK treat using individualised homeopathic prescription; to record patient-assessed change in severity of treated complaint (acute or chronic); to determine periodontal pocket depth (PPD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three dentists recorded data systematically at 249 homeopathic appointments in 51 patients over a period of 18 months. A spreadsheet enabled the data collection of the following records: date of appointment; anonymised patient identity; main periodontal problem treated; whether the condition was acute or chronic; patient-assessed clinical outcome on a 7-point Likert scale, ranging from -3 to +3, to compare the first and any subsequent appointments; whether any interventional dental surgery (IDS) had been carried out; clinician-assessed PPD measurements.

RESULTS

At least one follow-up (FU) appointment was reported for each of 46 patients (22 chronic [6 with IDS, 16 without IDS]; 24 acute [10 with IDS, 14 without IDS]). In chronic cases, strongly positive outcomes (score of +2 or +3) were reported by 2 (33.3%) of 6 IDS patients and by 1 (6.3%) of 16 non-IDS patients. In acute cases, strongly positive outcomes were reported by 7 (70%) of 10 IDS patients and by 8 (57.2%) of 14 non-IDS patients (no statistically significant difference between sub-groups). The FU conditions most frequently treated with homeopathy were chronic periodontitis (19 patients) and acute periodontal abscess (11 patients). Analysis of PPD data was not feasible due to the small numbers of patients involved.

CONCLUSION

Limited insight has been gained into the periodontal complaints treated by homeopathy in the UK. Due to small sample size and equivocal results, the interpretation of the patient-reported outcomes data is unclear. Positive findings obtained in the acute treatment setting suggest that this may be a promising area for research in periodontal homeopathy.

Effect of controlled-release Periochip™ on clinical and microbiological parameters in patients of chronic periodontitis

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the clinical and microbiological effectiveness of Periochip™ as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) with SRP alone in patients with chronic periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This randomized, split mouth, 3-month clinical and microbiological trial included 30 sites in 15 patients aged 30-50 years diagnosed with chronic periodontitis. In each patient, two bilateral pockets probing 5-7 mm were randomly assigned to test and control groups. The test group received SRP plus Periochip™, whereas the control group received SRP alone. Clinical indices and anaerobic culture analysis was done at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months interval. Total bacterial count and analysis of four major periodontopathogenic bacteria Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) was done.

RESULTS

Significant improvement was obtained in all clinical variables in the test group as compared to the control group over the study period. Total colony counts were significantly reduced in the test group as compared to control over the period of time. At baseline Aa was recovered from 4 test group sites and 5 control group sites, Pg from 15 test group and 14 control group sites, Pi from 5 test group and 2 control group sites, Fn from 7 test and 7 control group sites. At 3 months, Aa was recovered from 1 test group and 4 control group sites, Pg from 4 test group and 8 control group sites, Pi from 1 test group and 1 control group site, Fn from 3 test and 4 control group sites.

CONCLUSION

Periochip™ placement as an adjunct to SRP, showed promising results, when compared to SRP alone. Healthy microflora can be maintained for a longer period of time and delay in the repopulation by periodontopathic microorganisms was observed.

Comparative analysis of hyaluronan gel and xanthan-based chlorhexidine gel, as adjunct to scaling and root planing with scaling and root planing alone in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: A preliminary study

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of hyaluronan (HA) and chlorhexidine (CHX) gels as adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sixty patients within the age group of 30-65 years recruited to participate in the study were randomly equally divided into three groups. Complete SRP and subgingival debridement were performed within 6 h in all the patients. For control (Group I) patients, SRP was the only treatment modality given; for Group II and III patients, at least 8 teeth with 4-8 mm probing pocket depth (PPD) were selected for subgingival application of HA gel and CHX gel, respectively. Clinical periodontal parameters such as gingival index, PPD, and clinical attachment level (CAL) were recorded at baseline and 3 months, whereas plaque index was recorded at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months. For measuring systemic/hematological parameters, blood samples for laboratory tests for total leucocyte count (TLC), differential leucocyte count (DLC), and C-reactive protein (CRP) were obtained using standard 2-mL syringe from each subject in all the three groups at baseline, 24 h, and on the 1 month and 3 months post-baseline.

RESULTS

In all the three groups, a significant reduction in PPD and gain in CAL were observed between baseline and 3 months follow-up (P< 0.05); however, at 3 months, change in PPD and CAL was more in Group II than Group III, but the difference was non-significant, and Group I (control) showed less changes in PPD and CAL than both experimental groups. Only one patient revealed positive value for CRP at baseline only, and hence could not be statistically analyzed. In all the three groups, the peak values for TLC count were observed at 24 h. At 1-month and 3-month intervals, a significant improvement in TLC and DLC counts was observed among the experimental (HA gel/SRP and Xan-CHX gel) groups as compared to control group (SRP alone).

A systematic review on the effects of local antimicrobials as adjuncts to subgingival debridement, compared with subgingival debridement alone, in the treatment of chronic periodontitis

AIMS

To update the existing scientific evidence on the efficacy of local antimicrobials as adjuncts to subgingival debridement in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty-six papers were selected, reporting data from 52 different investigations. All the studies reported changes in probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) and most in plaque index (PlI) and/or bleeding on probing (BOP). Meta-analyses were performed with the data retrieved from the studies fulfilling the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS

The overall effect of the subgingival application of antimicrobials was statistically significant (p = 0.000) for both changes in PPD and CAL with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of -0.407 and -0.310 mm respectively. No significant differences occurred for changes in BOP and PlI. Subgingival application of tetracycline fibres, sustained released doxycycline and minocycline demonstrated a significant benefit in PPD reduction (WMD between 0.5 and 0.7 mm). The rest of the tested outcomes demonstrated a high heterogeneity. The local application of chlorhexidine and metronidazole showed a minimal effect when compared with placebo (WMD between 0.1 and 0.4 mm).

CONCLUSIONS

The scientific evidence supports the adjunctive use of local antimicrobials to debridement in deep or recurrent periodontal sites, mostly when using vehicles with proven sustained release of the antimicrobial.

Adjunctive effect of chlorhexidine antiseptics in mechanical periodontal treatment: first results of a preliminary case series

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present case series was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological effects of a single session of mechanical and manual scaling and root planing (SRP) combined with the use of two different chlorhexidine formulations in the treatment for generalized chronic periodontitis.

METHODS

Ten patients affected by chronic periodontal disease with periodontal probing depth (PPD) ≥ 5 mm were treated with SRP plus local chlorhexidine. In each patient, similar teeth, treated with SRP with the adjunctive use of chlorhexidine digluconate and dihydrochloride or chlorhexidine gluconate, respectively, were selected and assigned to a test and a control group. In both groups, PPD, bleeding on probing (BOP) parameters, total bacterial counts (TBC) and quality of periodontal bacteria at time 0 and 6 weeks after treatment were measured.

RESULTS

PPD significantly decreased over time both in the test and in the control group; however, no significant differences between the two groups were observed. BOP and TBC were significantly lower in the test than in the control group 6 weeks after treatment. In the post-treatment revaluation, a significant decrease both in the treatment and in the control group, for each of the single periodontal pathogens, was observed.

CONCLUSION

In this study--a preliminary case series with small sample size and short follow-up--the adjunctive use of chlorhexidine (CHX) to SRP resulted in clinical and microbiological benefits in the treatment for generalized chronic periodontitis. A CHX gel formulation consisting of CHX digluconate and CHX dihydrochloride seems to lead some additional benefits over SRP plus CHX gluconate in the short term. Additional investigations are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of this antiseptic therapy.

Clinical effects of an essential oil solution used as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement

AIM

The use of chlorhexidine and povidone iodine solutions applied as a coolant during ultrasonic root debridement for the treatment of chronic periodontitis has been described. Hitherto, this application has not yet been extensively investigated for essential oil solutions. The goal was to clinically explore this and to compare to water irrigation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-five chronic periodontitis patients participated in a single-blind randomized controlled clinical study. Patients were randomly allocated to the control group (n=18) or test group (n=17) receiving oral hygiene instructions and ultrasonic root debridement using water as a coolant, respectively, a pure essential oil solution. Oral hygiene was reinforced if necessary at each occasion, and clinical parameters were collected at baseline and after 1 and 3 months.

RESULTS

Significant pocket reduction (control, 1.02 mm; test, 0.89 mm) and clinical attachment gain (control and test, 0.48 mm) were shown in both groups. However, there were no significant differences between the groups at any point in time for any of the parameters.

CONCLUSION

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.

To assess the effectiveness of a chlorhexidine chip in the treatment of chronic periodontitis: A clinical and radiographic study

CONTEXT

Controlled local delivery of disinfecting agents has been demonstrated to be efficient in improving the outcome of periodontal therapy.

AIMS

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of a controlled-release biodegradable chlorhexidine chip (Periocol CG) when used as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in the treatment of periodontitis.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

The study was carried out as randomized controlled two-group parallel clinical trial.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty patients in the age group of 30-65 years suffering from mild to moderate chronic periodontitis, having pocket depth ranging between 5 and 8 mm, were selected for the study. At the screening visit, complete history taking, periodontal examination and full-mouth supragingival scaling was carried out for each patient. At the baseline visit (on the 7(th) day), all clinical parameters and radiographic parameters were recorded at selected sites and patients were randomly assigned to either the control group (group A) or the treatment group (group B). All patients in both the groups received complete subgingival scaling and root planing. Then, in group B, chlorhexidine chip (Periocol CG) was inserted at the selected site. Patients were recalled at 1 month, 2 months and 3 months from the baseline for recording clinical observations, and radiographic parameters were recorded at the end of the study.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Mean, standard deviation, Chi-square test, "t" test for equality of means and paired samples correlations were used.

RESULTS

There was a statistically significant clinical attachment gain, reduction in bleeding index scores, probing pocket depth reduction and bone gain in both the groups, but group B showed better results than group A, and these differences were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study show that chlorhexidine chip (PerioCol-CG) is an effective adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Adsorption of chlorhexidine on synthetic hydroxyapatite and in vitro biological activity

The kinetic of chlorhexidine digluconate (CHXDG) uptake from aqueous solution by hydroxyapatite (HA) was investigated by ultraviolet (UV) analysis performed in HA powder (UV-solid) after the CHX adsorption. Adsorption isotherm of chlorhexidine (CHX) uptake was modeled by a combination of Languimir and Langmuir-Freundlich mechanisms. Strong molecule-molecule interactions and positive cooperativity predominated in the surface when CHX concentration was above 8.6 μg(CHX)/mg(HA). UV-solid spectra (shape, intensity and band position) of CHX bound to HA revealed that long-range molecular structures, such as aggregates or micelles, started to be formed at low CHX concentrations (1.52 μg(CHX)/mg(HA)) and predominated at high concentrations. Grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) analysis from synchrotron radiation discarded the formation of crystalline structures on HA surface or precipitation of CHX crystalline salts, as suggested in previous works. The effect of the HA/CHX association on HA in vitro bioactivity, cytotoxicity and CHX antimicrobial activity was evaluated. It was shown that CHX did not inhibit the precipitation of a poorly crystalline apatite at HA/CHX surface after soaking in simulating body fluid (SBF). Cell viability studies after exposure to extracts of HA and HA/CHX showed that both biomaterials did not present significant in vitro toxicity. Moreover, HA/CHX inhibited Enterococcus faecalis growth for up to 6 days, revealing that binding to HA did not affect antimicrobial activity of CHX and reduced bacterial adhesion. These results suggested that HA/CHX association could result in a potential adjuvant antimicrobial system for clinical use.

A novel approach to the use of subgingival controlled-release chlorhexidine delivery in chronic periodontitis: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

We aimed to analyze clinical, microbiologic, and serologic effects of chlorhexidine (CHX) chips used as a subgingival controlled-release delivery device before and immediately after scaling and root planing (SRP).

METHODS

Twenty-four patients presenting with ≥12 teeth with probing depth (PD) ≥5 mm and bleeding on probing were assigned in test or control groups. After prophylaxis, CHX chips (test) or placebo chips (control) were placed in pockets with PD ≥5 mm. Ten days later, SRP was performed in all teeth with PD ≥4 mm in a single appointment. Immediately after SRP, new chips were inserted in all pockets with PD ≥5 mm. Parameters were assessed at baseline; beginning of SRP; and 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. Subgingival samples were obtained at baseline; beginning of SRP; and at 1 month after treatment. Periodontal pathogens Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola were analyzed. Serum levels of high sensitive C-reactive and lipopolysaccharide-binding proteins were measured. The changes of the parameters between and within the groups were tested by Mann-Whitney U test (P <0.05).

RESULTS

All clinical and serologic parameters improved in both groups over time. There was a significant difference in clinical attachment level (CAL) gain from baseline to 6 months between groups (1.17 mm in the test group versus 0.79 mm in the placebo group) (P <0.05). The treatment with CHX chips showed a greater reduction of the microorganisms of the "red complex" after 1 month (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The use of CHX chips before and immediately after SRP improved CAL and reduced the subgingival microorganisms of the red complex in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Influence of endodontic chemical treatment on Enterococcus faecalis adherence to collagen studied with laser scanning confocal microscopy and optical tweezers: a preliminary study

Failure of endodontic treatment is commonly associated with the presence of Enterococcus faecalis. Studies have highlighted that E. faecalis can form a calcified biofilm in tough environmental conditions, such as within root canals. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of chemicals used in root-canal disinfection on the adherence of E. faecalis to collagen, as well as to estimate the force of adhesion between E. faecalis and collagen after such treatment. The number of adhering bacteria after chemical treatment was determined using confocal laser scanning microscopy-based adherence assay. It was found that the calcium hydroxide-treated group had a statistically significant (p=0.05) increase in the population of bacteria adhering. The adhesion force between bacteria and collagen of the treatment group with the highest number of bacteria adhering was determined by using optical tweezers (1064 nm) and Equipartitition theorem-based stiffness measurements. The presence of calcium hydroxide was found to significantly increase the bacterium-collagen adhesion force. These experiments highlighted the potential advantage of using optical tweezers to study bacteria-substrate interactions. The findings from the present study suggests that the presence of calcium hydroxide increased the adhesion force and adherence of E. faecalis to type-I collagen.

Controlled-delivery chlorhexidine chip versus amoxicillin/metronidazole as adjunctive antimicrobial therapy for generalized aggressive periodontitis: a randomized controlled clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Subgingival application of chlorhexidine via a controlled-delivery device (CHX chip) improves the clinical outcome of scaling/root planing (SRP) in therapy for chronic periodontitis. Generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAP) is commonly treated with SRP and adjunctive antimicrobial medication. To date, the efficacy of CHX chips in GAP therapy has not been evaluated.

AIM

To compare SRP plus adjunctive CHX chip placement with SRP plus adjunctive systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole with regard to clinical efficacy in first-line therapy for GAP.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-six GAP patients were treated with SRP and randomly with either placement of CHX chips or systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole. Clinical attachment level (CAL), probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BoP) and suppuration (Pus) were measured at baseline, 3 and 6 months after therapy.

RESULTS

CAL, PD, BoP and Pus were significantly reduced in both groups after 3 months. In the CHX chip group, PD significantly increased again between 3 and 6 months. Finally, amoxicillin/metronidazole patients presented significantly more CAL "gain", PD reduction and less remaining deep sites after 6 months. Pus remained detectable in CHX chip patients only.

CONCLUSIONS

In first-line non-surgical therapy for GAP, SRP plus adjunctive systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole was more efficacious in clinically relevant measures of outcome than SRP plus adjunctive placement of CHX chips.

Subgingival Chlorhexidine Varnish Administration as an Adjunct to Same-Day Full-Mouth Root Planing. I. Clinical Observations

BACKGROUND

Chemo-mechanical treatment concepts have been developed to improve the outcome of non-surgical periodontal therapy. Recently, the clinical additive value of a supersaturated chlorhexidine varnish was shown when used as an adjunct to staged scaling and root planing. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical effects of a treatment strategy for chronic periodontitis based on a combination of same-day full-mouth root planing and subgingival chlorhexidine varnish administration.

METHODS

A randomized, controlled, single-blind, parallel trial was conducted on 33 non-smoking chronic periodontitis patients. The control group received oral hygiene instructions and same-day full-mouth root planing. The test group received the same instructions and treatment; however, all pockets were disinfected using a chlorhexidine varnish. Clinical response parameters were recorded at baseline and after 1, 3, and 6 months.

RESULTS

Both groups showed significant reductions in probing depth following therapy (P <0.001). There was no significant difference in full-mouth probing depth between the groups at any examination point. However, when a site-specific comparison was made, additive effects were found in the test group; an extra pocket reduction of 0.93 mm (P = 0.044) for initially deep pockets (>or=7 mm) was found at study termination. Additive clinical attachment gains seemed to be temporary. Impermanent extra pocket reductions and clinical attachment gains were found for initially medium-deep pockets (4 to 6 mm).

CONCLUSION

The outcome of same-day full-mouth root planing may benefit from the subgingival administration of a highly concentrated chlorhexidine varnish, at least in terms of pocket reduction in initially deep sites (>or=7 mm).

Long-Term Clinical Effects of a Chlorhexidine Varnish Implemented Treatment Strategy for Chronic Periodontitis

BACKGROUND

Scaling and root planing in combination with oral hygiene monitoring are still considered the therapeutic standards for periodontitis. Although this treatment concept customarily results in satisfactory clinical improvements, treatment outcome may become less favorable predominantly when full access to periodontal defects is compromised, thereby leaving accretions behind. The purpose of this study was to investigate, over a 9-month period, the clinical benefits of a treatment strategy for chronic periodontitis based on a combination of sequential scaling and root planing and subgingival chlorhexidine varnish administration.

METHODS

This randomized controlled, single blind, parallel trial included 26 volunteers with chronic periodontitis. The control group received oral hygiene instructions and was scaled and root planed in two sessions. The test group received the same instructions and treatment; however, all pockets were additionally disinfected using a highly concentrated chlorhexidine varnish. Clinical response parameters were recorded at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 9 months. The impact of the initial strategy on the decision-making process for supplementary therapy at 9 months was investigated based on treatment decisions made by five independent clinicians.

RESULTS

Both treatment strategies showed significant reductions in probing depth and gains in clinical attachment at study termination in comparison with baseline (P<0.001). However, combination therapy resulted in a significant additional pocket reduction of 0.62 mm (P<0.001). Initially deep pockets (>or=7 mm) around multirooted teeth seemed to benefit most from the combination strategy, resulting in an additive pocket reduction of 1.06 mm (P=0.009) and a clinical attachment gain of 0.54 mm (P=0.048) in comparison to scaling and root planing alone. A trend toward a reduction of surgical treatment needs following the varnish-implemented strategy was found (P=0.076).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the outcome of initial periodontal therapy may benefit from the adjunctive subgingival administration of a highly concentrated chlorhexidine varnish.