Efficacy of locally-delivered doxycycline microspheres in chronic localized periodontitis and on Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Aim: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and effect of locally-delivered doxycycline microspheres with scaling and root planing in periodontal pocket therapy and on Porphyromonas gingivalis, respectively.

Methods: Twenty sites with a probing pocket depth of 4-6 mm were divided into two groups: a control group consisting of scaling and root planing, with one application of doxycycline microspheres only at baseline, and a test group consisting of scaling and root planing, with an application of doxycycline microspheres at baseline and 1 and 3 months. Clinical readings included the plaque index, gingival index, probing pocket depth, and relative attachment level. Rapid polymerase chain reaction method was used for the detection of P. gingivalis.

Results: A statistically-significant reduction in probing pocket depth and attachment gain was found in both groups; the test group showed a significant reduction in probing pocket depth and attachment gain compared with the control at 3 and 6 months. P. gingivalis cell count in the test group was significantly reduced at all the time periods, except from 1 to 3 months.

Conclusion: Local drug delivery of doxycycline microspheres significantly improved the treatment outcomes in periodontal pocket therapy and reduced P. gingivalis in the periodontal pocket.