Clin Oral Investig. 2025 Nov 8;29(12):557. doi: 10.1007/s00784-025-06624-7.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: This study aims to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of 1% melatonin gel combined with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA) versus DFDBA alone in treating intrabony periodontal defects in Stage II & III periodontitis. Clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), along with analysis of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) levels of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL) and osteoprotegerin (OPG).
METHODOLOGY: A prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blinded clinical trial was conducted on 20 patients with 20 intrabony defects. The control group received DFDBA alone, while the test group received a combination of 1% melatonin gel and DFDBA. Clinical parameters Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) and Probing Pocket Depth (PPD) were evaluated at baseline, 3, and 6 months. Using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographic parameters linear bone fill and bone volume and GCF biomarkers (RANKL and OPG) were assessed at baseline and 6 months. Plaque Index (PI) and Sulcus Bleeding Index (SBI) were secondary outcomes. CAL change served as the primary outcome variable.
RESULTS: After 6 months, the test group showed a mean CAL gain of 3.10 ± 0.87 mm and the control group 4.00 ± 1.85 mm, which was not statistically significant between the groups; however, intra-group comparison revealed a statistically significant CAL gain from baseline in both groups. Both groups showed improvements in assessed parameters, however, the test group demonstrated significantly greater bone fill (1.88 ± 0.26 mm vs. 1.16 ± 0.38 mm) and bone volume gain (22.67 ± 1.36 mm³ vs. 14.78 ± 0.5 mm³; p< 0.000). Greater reduction in PPD and gain in CAL were noted in the test group. GCF analysis revealed a significant increase in OPG (99.87 ± 15.07) and reduction in RANKL levels (66.13 ± 19.12) in the test group at 6 months (p= 0.000).
CONCLUSION: Melatonin gel as an adjunct to DFDBA enhances clinical, radiographic, and biochemical outcomes in intrabony periodontal defect therapy. Clinical Trials Registry of India (CTRI/2023/07/055039).
PMID:41205053 | DOI:10.1007/s00784-025-06624-7
