Supra- and sub-gingival calculus and debris were removed

Probing depth was recorded at tested sites with graduated William's probe graduated in 1 mm increment. Readings were rounded to the nearest mm.

Clinical attachment loss was recorded at tested sites with graduated William's probe graduated in 1 mm increment. Readings were rounded to the nearest mm.

Bleeding on probing was assessed at tested sites with graduated William's probe graduated in 1 mm increment, within 15 seconds after probing, using a dichotomous scoring system (+ and -) for presence or absence, respectively.

Gingival index was assessed at 4 sites on six index teeth. Scores range from 0 to 3, with 0 being normal and 3 being severe inflammation

This involved determination of the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MPP-8). A GCF sample was taken from the area showing the deepest pocket depth around the treated area.The samples were diluted in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) up to 1 mL. After waiting for 15 min, the paper points were removed, and 500 μL were centrifuged at 400 g for 4 min, then frozen at -20°C pending MMP-8 analysis using Human Matrix metalloproteinase 8/Neutrophil collagenase (MMP-8) ELISA Kit according to the manufacturer instructions.