Comparison Of Efficacy Of 25% Propolis Extract Versus 0.2% Chlorhexidine Used As Subgingival Irrigation As An Adjunct To Scaling And Root Planing For The Treatment Of Chronic Periodontitis: A Clinical And Microbiological Analysis

Abstract

Introduction:  The goal of this study was to compare the efficacy of 25% propolis extract versus 0.2% chlorhexidine in subgingival irrigation as a supplement to mechanical debridement to promote the repair of the periodontal supporting tissues in chronic periodontitis patients.

Materials and Procedures:  Thirty individuals were chosen and divided into two groups of fifteen individuals each at random. Scaling and root planing procedures were completed to eliminate local irritants. On the seventh day and the fifteenth day, 0.2% chlorhexidine (control group) and 25% propolis extract (test group) were applied as a supplement to mechanical debridement therapy. Plaque index(PI), gingival index(GI), pocket probing depth(PPD), and clinical attachment level(CAL) were evaluated at baseline, on day 15, and day 30. Microbial analysis for the colony‑forming unit (CFU) was done at baseline and on the 30th day

Results: Statistically significant decline in PI, GI, PPD, and CAL  in both groups from the baseline to 30 days has been observed. In comparison to both the groups, the results were somewhat better for those who received 0.2% chlorhexidine irrigation, although this difference was not statistically significant in comparison to the group that received 25% propolis irrigation.

Conclusion: A conclusion was reached that when used as a subgingival irrigation agent, propolis extract reduces subgingival biofilm, periodontal pocket microbial composition and enhances the repair of periodontal tissues just as well as chlorhexidine does.