Chlorhexidine and Zinc in Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the supporting structures of the teeth and is associated with both local tissue destruction and systemic inflammatory responses. Non-surgical periodontal therapy, particularly scaling and root planing (SRP), is the primary treatment approach; however, it may not completely eliminate pathogenic microorganisms in all cases. Adjunctive antimicrobial agents may improve treatment outcomes by enhancing bacterial reduction and modulating inflammation. Chlorhexidine (CHX) is widely used for its antimicrobial properties, while zinc has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The combined use of CHX and zinc may provide synergistic benefits in periodontal therapy. The aim of this randomized controlled clinical trial is to evaluate the clinical and biochemical effects of CHX and zinc as adjuncts to SRP in individuals with stage I and II periodontitis. A total of 44 systemically healthy participants will be randomly assigned to two groups. The test group will receive SRP with CHX and zinc, while the control group will receive SRP with distilled water. Clinical periodontal parameters (Plaque Index, Bleeding on Probing, Probing Pocket Depth, and Clinical Attachment Level) and biochemical markers (C-reactive protein, high-sensitivity CRP, Oncostatin M, and Antistreptolysin O) will be evaluated at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence regarding the potential benefits of CHX and zinc in improving periodontal treatment outcomes and reducing systemic inflammation.