Comparative evaluation of clinical outcomes and microbial load after one-stage full mouth disinfection with 20% propolis hydroalcoholic rinse and 0.2% chlorhexidine rinse in stage II grade B periodontitis patients: a single-blind randomized controlled trial.

This randomized single-blind clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of 20 percent  propolis hydroalcoholic rinse with the gold-standard 0.2 percent  chlorhexidine rinse when used as part of a one-stage full-mouth disinfection (OSFMD) protocol in Stage II Grade B periodontitis patients.

A total of 40 patients will be randomly assigned into two equal groups (20 each):

• Test Group: OSFMD using 20 percent propolis hydroalcoholic rinse
• Control Group: OSFMD using 0.2 percent chlorhexidine rinse

All participants will undergo full-mouth scaling and root planing within 24 hours, followed by mouth rinsing, tongue brushing, and subgingival irrigation with their respective rinses. They will continue using the assigned rinse (2 ml twice daily) for 2 weeks.

The study evaluates clinical outcomes—gingival index, plaque index, modified sulcus bleeding index, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level—along with microbial load (colony forming units) at three intervals:

• Baseline
• 24 hours
• 12 weeks

The primary objective is to determine whether propolis performs comparably or better than chlorhexidine in improving periodontal clinical parameters. The secondary objective is to assess differences in microbial load reduction between the two groups.

The study follows simple random sampling, SNOSE allocation concealment, and involves an examiner-blinded assessment. Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS with significance set at p less than 0.05.

Overall, the study aims to explore whether propolis, a natural agent with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and fewer side effects, can serve as an effective alternative to chlorhexidine in periodontal therapy.