Effect of propolis extract and chlorhexidine in treating chronic periodontitis: A randomized controlled trial

Chronic periodontitis remains a significant dental health issue, with current treatments often relying on chemical irrigants like chlorhexidine, which may have limitations. Therefore, it is of interest to compare the clinical and microbiological effects of 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) and 25% propolis extract as subgingival irrigants adjunctive to scaling and root planing in chronic periodontitis patients. Twenty patients were randomly assigned to receive either CHX or propolis following SRP. Significant improvements were observed in clinical parameters (Gingival Index, Plaque Index and Probing Pocket Depth) and microbiological reduction in both groups, with propolis showing superior results. Propolis extract exhibited greater efficacy in reducing clinical symptoms and bacterial detection, suggesting it as a promising natural alternative to CHX.