Herbal approaches in periodontal therapy: A systematic review of dental assistants' involvement in patient care

Background: Periodontal disease is a prevalent condition that affects oral and systemic health, requiring effective treatment approaches. While conventional therapies are widely used, interest in herbal remedies has grown due to their natural, costeffective, and therapeutic properties. Dental assistants play a pivotal role in periodontal care, particularly in patient education and the implementation of complementary therapies. Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of herbal approaches in periodontal therapy and to examine the role of dental assistants in integrating these treatments into patient care. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Studies published between 2010 and 2024 that focused on herbal therapies for periodontal disease and the role of dental assistants was included. Data on the efficacy of herbal agents, their clinical applications, and dental assistants' involvement were extracted and analyzed. Results: The review identified a variety of herbal agents, including turmeric, aloe vera, neem, and green tea, with demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties in periodontal therapy. Studies highlighted the potential of dental assistants to educate patients, assist in the application of herbal treatments, and monitor outcomes. However, challenges such as insufficient training and lack of standardized protocols were noted. Conclusion: Herbal remedies present a promising adjunct to conventional periodontal therapy, offering natural and effective options for improving oral health. Dental assistants can significantly enhance the implementation and success of these treatments through patient education and clinical support. Future research and training initiatives are needed to maximize the integration of herbal medicine in dental practice.