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

## TL;DR

This study compares the effectiveness of propolis extract and chlorhexidine in treating chronic periodontitis, finding propolis to be more effective.

## Contribution

The study introduces propolis extract as a superior natural alternative to chlorhexidine for treating chronic periodontitis.

## Key findings

- Both propolis and chlorhexidine improved clinical parameters in chronic periodontitis patients.
- Propolis extract showed greater efficacy in reducing bacterial detection and clinical symptoms.
- Propolis outperformed chlorhexidine as a subgingival irrigant adjunct to scaling and root planing.

## Abstract

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.