Efficacy of local treatment with chlorhexidine gluconate drugs on the clinical status of periodontium in chronic periodontitis patients

Pietruska M, Paniczko A, Waszkiel D, Pietruski J, Bernaczyk A

Abstract

Purpose: Chlorhexidine gluconate is a relatively commonly used chemotherapeutic in the treatment of periodontitis (P), exhibiting antimicrobial capabilities against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, and fungi. This compound is a component of various preparations for topical use in the form of solutions for mouthrinsing or peri-irrigation, gels, varnishes, chips and even chewing gums. The aim of the study was the clinical evaluation of periodontium after treatment with one of the drugs containing chlorhexidine gluconate (Corsodyl) as compared to professional tooth cleaning in patients with chronic periodontitis.
Materal and methods: Forty subjects enrolled in the study were divided into four groups, 10 in each group, according to the mode of treatment (Corsodyl rinse, Corsodyl gel, Corsodyl gel + surgical dressing, scaling).
Results: The greatest differences between baseline and follow-up examinations were observed in the group where surgical dressing was applied in addition to Corsodyl gel and in the group treated with scaling.
Conclusions: Chlorhexidine gluconate should be more frequently used as a drug adjunct to classic periodontal therapy, especially in the forms allowing its direct application to the periodontal pockets.

Key words: chlorhexidine gluconate, chronic periodontitis.