Comparative evaluation of subgingivally-delivered 1% metformin and Aloe vera gel in the treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis patients: A randomized, controlled clinical trial

AimThe aim of the current study was to explore the effectiveness of locally-delivered 1% metformin (MtF) and Aloe vera (AV) gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planning (SRP) in the treatment of intrabony defects in chronic periodontitis patients. MethodsA total of 90 volunteers were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: (a) SRP+placebo gel; (b) SRP+1% MtF gel; and (c) SRP + AV gel. Clinical parameters, including gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BoP), pocket probing depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL), were recorded at baseline, and 6 and 12months. The radiological assessment of bone defect fill was done at 6 and 12months. ResultsGI, BoP, PPD, and CAL improved in all the groups; however, the mean PPD reduction, CAL gain, and percentage of bone fill was found to be greater in the MtF and AV groups than the placebo group at all visits. ConclusionLocal delivery of 1% MtF and AV gel stimulates a significant PPD reduction, CAL gain, and improved bone fill and regeneration when compared with placebo gel. Results were significantly better with the use of 1% MtF gel than AV gel.