Evaluation of clinical and microbiological effect of lactobacillus reuteri probiotics.

The present randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of Lactobacillus reuteri-containing probiotic suspension as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP).

Material and Methods: Twenty sites from twelve chronic periodontitis patients were recruited and monitored clinically and microbiologically at baseline, three, and six months after therapy for plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) and microbiologically or Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) load. Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were scheduled within one week for two sessions of SRP performed using ultrasonic scalers and hand instrumentation. After SRP, oral hygiene measures were reassured and then sites were randomly allocated to one of the two groups 10 sites each. group I (SRP only) and group II (SRP + probiotic). Group II received SRP and sub-gingival delivery of 1ml of probiotic L. reuteri suspension at baseline (immediately after SRP), one, two and four weeks using blunt syringe. Periodontal dressing was applied after placement of the drug.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with good systemic health.
2. Patients with moderate chronic periodontitis with attachment level ranging from 3-4 mm.
3. Optimal compliance as evidenced by no missed treatment appointments and positive attitude towards oral hygiene.
4. No gingival recession.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Patients with history of antibiotic, anti-inflammatory drugs or periodontal therapy in the preceding 6 months.
2. Patients with risk factors (e.g. - smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, uncontrolled hypertension, pregnant or any other systemic disease which can alter the course of periodontal therapy).
3. Patients who are allergic to lactate products.