A clinical, radiographical and microbiological study for evaluating and comparing natural chicory leaf extract with synthetic chlorhexidine in the management of stage 2 grade B chronic periodontitis as a local drug delivery agent: a split-mouth randomized controlled clinical trial

This randomized split-mouth controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate and compare the clinical, radiographic, and microbiological efficacy of chicory (Cichorium intybus) leaf extract and 1% chlorhexidine gel as local drug delivery agents used as adjuncts to scaling and root planing in patients with Stage 2 Grade B chronic periodontitis. A total of 20–30 systemically healthy patients aged 30–65 years presenting with bilateral periodontal pockets of 5–7 mm associated with horizontal bone loss will be recruited. Following full mouth scaling and root planing, selected contralateral sites in each patient will receive either chicory leaf extract or chlorhexidine gel delivered subgingivally using an absorbable gelatin sponge. Clinical parameters including probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, gingival index, and plaque index will be recorded at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months post-intervention. Microbiological assessment of subgingival plaque samples and standardized intraoral periapical radiographic evaluation of alveolar bone levels will be performed at baseline and at 6 months. The study aims to determine whether chicory leaf extract can serve as an effective and biocompatible alternative to chlorhexidine in the management of chronic periodontitis.