Effect of oral curcuma gel in gingivitis management - a pilot study.

BACKGROUND Various modalities of treatments are available for gingival disease, but there are adverse effects of these conventional compounds. This led to the search of natural products which are highly beneficial and biocompatible. Turmeric is one such novel product obtained from plants, known for its varied medicinal value. In dentistry, it plays a role treating gingival and periodontal disease. AIM To evaluate the clinical efficacy of oral curcuma gel in gingivitis and to assess any adverse effects of the gel. MATERIALS AND METHODS This pilot study comprises of 10 individuals with severe gingivitis. They were made to apply oral curcuma gel for a period of 21 days. The papillary bleeding index (PBI) were assessed before and after along with visual analogue scale. The obtained data was statistically analysed. RESULTS The data was analysed with Pearson Spearman's correlation coefficient and paired 't' test. The results were statistically significant with p<0.001. CONCLUSION The gel containing curcuma longa extract was efficient in treating gingivitis by reducing its inflammatory components.