Hyaluronan-Containing Gel May Improve Periodontal Wound Healing

Hyaluronan-Containing Gel May Improve Periodontal Wound Healing

A new study suggests that the application of a hyaluronan-containing gel may be a useful adjunct to scaling and root planing for patients with periodontal diseases. The research, published in the July issue of the Journal of Periodontology, examined the adjunctive application of hyaluronan, a nonsulfated glycosaminoglycan and a vital component in the extracellular matrix that supports cell proliferation and migration. Also known as hyaluronic acid, this anti-inflammatory agent—which has been demonstrated in animal and in vitro studies to support fibroblasts, bone regeneration, and wound healing—was applied both in-office and for 2 weeks daily after the completion of scaling and root planing. Results of this study suggest that use of hyaluronic acid may significantly reduce probing depths and improve clinical attachment levels, as well as prevent recolonization of periodontopathogens.

The study included 42 participants (age 41 to 72) with moderate to severe periodontitis who had at least 20 teeth. Subjects were split equally into a test group and a control group. Each participant received full-mouth scaling and root planing, and plaque and gingival crevicular fluid samples were collected. Oral hygiene routines were established and encouraged, especially during the first 7 days post-treatment.

In addition, a hyaluronan-containing gel was applied to the periodontal pockets of the test group participants immediately after treatment. This group also was instructed to apply the gel twice daily for 14 consecutive days. The control group received no placebo.

At 3-month and 6-month follow-ups, all participants presented with significant improvement in probing depth and clinical attachment level. The test group, however, experienced greater reductions in probing depth, with a significant decrease in the number of pockets deeper than 5 mm. The authors concluded that hyaluronic acid may have a positive effect on wound healing, and promote periodontal integrity after scaling and root planing. Further studies are needed, however, to quantify these results.