CLINICAL AND LABORATORY EFFECTIVENESS OF PHYTOTHERAPEUTIC AGENTS IN THE TREATMENT OF PERIODONTAL DISEASES IN GERONTOLOGICAL PATIENTS

Abstract

Periodontal diseases in gerontological patients are associated with age-related changes in periodontal tissues, decreased microcirculation, reduced regenerative capacity, xerostomia, polypharmacy, and a high prevalence of concomitant somatic disorders. These factors complicate the use of long-term chemical antiseptics and increase the need for safe adjunctive methods. This article evaluates the clinical and laboratory effectiveness of phytotherapeutic agents used as an adjunct to standard periodontal treatment in patients aged 60 years and older. The study design included 72 gerontological patients with chronic gingivitis or mild-to-moderate periodontitis who were divided into a main group receiving a phytotherapeutic complex and a comparison group receiving conventional antiseptic therapy. Clinical assessment was based on the PMA index, Green-Vermillion oral hygiene index, Fedorov-Volodkina index, gingival bleeding, periodontal pocket depth, and xerostomia complaints. Laboratory and biochemical assessment included salivary pH, secretory immunoglobulin A, lysozyme activity, malondialdehyde level, and C-reactive protein. The modelled comparative analysis showed that the phytotherapy group demonstrated more pronounced improvement in inflammatory indices, oral hygiene indicators, salivary protective factors, and tolerability. The findings support the clinical relevance of phytotherapeutic agents as a safe adjunctive approach in individualized periodontal care for gerontological patients.