Effect of leaf extract of Carica papaya gel as local drug delivery in periodontitis subjects

Background: The destruction of tooth supporting structures as a result of an inflammatory host response is the characteristic of periodontitis. Mechanical plaque management techniques like non-surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) is crucial for preventing these diseases. Carica papaya leaves are rich in nutrients and vitamins and possess antibacterial, anti-fungal, properties and can be used as a reasonably safe alternative to synthetic pharmaceuticals. Objectives were to evaluate, compare and correlate the clinical parameters at baseline and 21st day after non-surgical periodontal therapy alone and after placement of Carica papaya gel. Methods: A total of 50 subjects with chronic periodontitis were selected and randomly divided into 2 groups - group A, non-surgical periodontal therapy alone (25), and group B, non-surgical periodontal therapy followed by local drug delivery with Carica papaya gel at selected sites (25). Gingival index, plaque index, bleeding on probing, pocket depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline and 21st day. Results: A statistical reduction in the clinical parameters was seen in both the groups. But comparatively Carica papaya leaf extract gel showed more reduction in BOP, inflammation and probing depth when compared with group A. Conclusions: Carica papaya gel in the form of LDD have demonstrated the efficacy and safety as adjunct products to non-surgical periodontal therapy, with notable improvements in the clinical outcomes which attributed to their anti-inflammatory property. Hence, Carica papaya gel can be used as a promising therapeutic agent.