Effectiveness of Medical Coaching in Enhancing Periodontal Health and Lifestyle: A Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE: Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting tooth-supporting tissues, primarily due to bacterial plaque and host response. Traditional therapy relies on oral hygiene instruction (OHI) and risk factor control, though adherence is challenging. This randomized controlled trial aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Medical Coaching on Oral Health (MCOH) in improving plaque control (PCR) and gingival bleeding index (GBI) after 1 month, compared to conventional OHI. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four patients with periodontitis at the University Hospital of Bari (Italy) were randomized into MCOH (n = 32) and control (n = 32) groups. Baseline assessments included periodontal status, PCR, GBI, and a lifestyle questionnaire (smoking, alcohol, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress). The MCOH group received personalized sessions, including goal-setting, emotional barrier assessment, and action planning, while the control group received standard OHI. RESULTS: After 4 weeks, the MCOH group showed greater improvements in GBI (-47.5 vs. -24.5, p < 0.001) and PCR (-44.0 vs. -32.0, p = 0.003). The composite clinical outcome was significantly higher in the MCOH group (75.0% vs. 34.4%, p = 0.001). Lifestyle improvement, particularly smoking cessation, alcohol reduction, and stress management, was greater in the MCOH group. MCOH improved periodontal outcomes and promoted healthier lifestyle behaviors compared to OHI. REGISTRATION: NCT06887946.