The Use of a Probiotic Lozenge in the Treatment of Residual Pockets After Classical Non-surgical Therapy

The aim of this study is to determine the efficacy of the usage of a probiobitc lozenge in patients with residual bleeding pockets of ≥ 5mm following scaling and rootplaning. Simultaneously the additional benefit of subgingival application of probiotics via oil drops will be investigated.

Recruitment: This study will be a single centre (Department of Oral Health Sciences, University Hospitals Leuven), double blind, randomized, placebo controlled clinical trial with within each patient a split mouth design. The randomization (by means of a computer program) and double blind design are thought to minimize the bias of the investigator and patients.

Selection of the study population: Adults, who consult at the department of Periodontology at the University Hospital Leuven, and who fit the inclusion criteria will be asked to participate in this study.

Inclusion criteria

• 40 patients
• ≥ 18 years of age
• scaling and rootplaning received at least 3 months ago
• Patients diagnosed with residual pockets (at least 2), with the definition of residual pockets:> 5mm or 5 and BOP+
• Willing and able to give written informed consent

Exclusion criteria

• patients with aggressive periodontitis
• patients who smoke
• pregnant or lactating woman
• patients with poorly controlled diabetes
• patients taking bisphosphonate mediation
• patient who had taken systemic antibiotics 3 months prior to treatment