Topical Application of Garcinia Mangostana L. Pericarp Gel As an Adjunct to Periodontal Treatment

Objective: To evaluate the effects of gel containing Garcinia mangostana L. pericarp extract (GM gel) applied topically as an adjunct to periodontal treatment.

Design: Subjects who had periodontal pockets on their single-rooted teeth were randomized into the test or control group. Subjects in the test group received periodontal treatment consisting of scaling, root planing and subgingival application of GM gel while those in the control group received scaling and root planing without GM gel application.

Setting: Mahidol University, Faculty of Dentistry, Thailand.

Main Outcome Measures: Clinical parameters included probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), Gingival Index (GI) and Plaque Index (PI). Microbiological parameter included subgingival microbial composition as examined by phase contrast microscopy.

Results: Clinical improvement compared to baseline was found in both groups (P < 0.05). The test group exhibited significantly higher reduction in mean PPD, GI and BOP than the control group at the 3rd month after treatment (P < 0.05). Subgingival microbial composition changed from diseased state to that compatible with health after treatment in both groups. However, significant differences between groups were found only in the mean percentage of cocci at the 1st and 3rd month after treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: GM gel could enhance the clinical effects of periodontal treatment.