Adjunctive Subgingival Pomegranate Peel Extract Gel for Stage II-III Periodontitis: A Randomized Split-Mouth Trial
This randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled split-mouth clinical trial aims to evaluate the clinical and biochemical efficacy of subgingival pomegranate peel extract gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of Stage II-III periodontitis. Thirty-two participants diagnosed with Stage II-III periodontitis will receive SRP in all selected periodontal sites. Test sites will receive locally delivered pomegranate peel extract gel, while contralateral control sites will receive a placebo gel. Clinical periodontal parameters, including probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), bleeding on probing (BOP), and gingival crevicular fluid levels of matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8), will be assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months to evaluate whether adjunctive pomegranate peel extract gel improves periodontal healing compared with SRP alone.
• Adults aged 30 to 60 years.
• Systemically healthy individuals.
• Diagnosis of Stage II or Stage III periodontitis according to the 2018 Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions.
• Presence of at least 20 natural teeth.
• Presence of at least two non-adjacent periodontal pockets (≥5 mm) located in different quadrants suitable for split-mouth allocation.
• Clinical attachment loss consistent with Stage II or Stage III periodontitis.
• Ability and willingness to comply with the study protocol and attend all follow-up visits.
• Provision of written informed consent.