Subgingivally delivered 1.2% atorvastatin in the treatment of chronic periodontitis among smokers: a randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Aim: Statins are known to have a beneficial effect in the treatment of chronic periodontitis (CP). The current study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of a 1.2% atorvastatin (ATV) local drug delivery system as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of intrabony defects (IBD) in CP among smokers.

Methods: Seventy-one smokers with CP were categorized into two treatment groups: SRP + 1.2% ATV gel and SRP + placebo gel. Clinical parameters, modified sulcus bleeding index, probing depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline before SRP and at 3, 6, and 9 months. At baseline, 6 months, and 9 months, the percentage of radiographic defect depth reduction was determined using computer-aided software.

Results: The mean probing depth reduction and mean clinical attachment level gain were found to be greater in the ATV group than the placebo group at 3, 6, and 9 months. A significantly greater mean percentage of radiographic defect depth reduction was found in the ATV group compared to the placebo group after 9 months.

Conclusion: The ATV local drug delivery as an adjunct to SRP can be used in the treatment of IBD in CP among smokers.