Comparative efficacy of a local drug delivery system using Blue®M gel and Gengigel® as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in chronic periodontitis patients

BACKGROUND: Periodontal disease is a condition that impacts the tissues surrounding the teeth, sparked by the build-up of bacteria leading to inflammation. These bacteria form biofilms, shielding themselves from antimicrobial treatment. Typically, mechanical cleaning disrupts these biofilms and lowers bacterial levels. However, in some cases, it might not fully address the disease due to intricate root structures and irregular lesion shapes. Local drug delivery directly to the affected area serves as a reservoir for drugs, potentially altering harmful bacteria and aiding in the healing process. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of various local drug delivery systems, specifically Blue®M gel along with scaling and root planing (SRP), Gengigel® with SRP, and SRP alone, in managing patients with chronic periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study population comprised 36 patients of both sexes in the age group of 35-60 years, with supra-bony pockets of 4-6 mm in any quadrant. The participants were randomly divided into 3 groups according to the treatment provided: group A - SRP alone; group B - SRP with BlueM gel; and group C - SRP with Gengigel. The gels were applied into the pockets. The follow-up period was 6 months. RESULTS: In a study involving 36 patients, predominantly males, with an average age of 42.03 years, Gengigel demonstrated a slightly greater reduction in the probing pocket depth (PPD) (-0.16 ±0.04 mm), the oral hygiene index (OHI) (-0.45 ±0.81) and the plaque index (PI) (-0.51 ±0.33) as compared to the other 2 groups. BlueM gel exhibited a superior reduction in the clinical attachment level (CAL) when compared to the control and Gengigel groups (-0.35 ±0.31 mm). CONCLUSIONS: Both BlueM Gel and Gengigel have proven to be dependable choices or adjuncts to SRP. However, additional studies are needed to further explore their effectiveness.