The role of curcumin in periodontal therapy: An update

Background: Periodontal diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, present a significant global health burden, particularly affecting adults and especially the aging population. The etiology involves complex interactions between microbial colonization and host immune-inflammatory responses, leading to tissue destruction and bone resorption. Current conventional treatments, primarily focused on mechanical debridement and antimicrobial agents, often have limitations and challenges, including antibiotic resistance and limited tissue regenerative potential. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from the Curcuma longa plant, has emerged as a promising adjunctive therapeutic agent owing to its remarkable pharmacological properties. Extensive preclinical research has revealed the potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects of curcumin. These attributes make it a compelling candidate for addressing various aspects of periodontal pathogenesis. Furthermore, curcumin's capacity to in vitro inhibit various periodontopathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans demonstrates its potential as a natural antimicrobial agent. Its adjunctive use in local drug delivery systems, such as gels or nanoparticles, holds promise for targeted delivery and sustained release within periodontal pockets, enhancing its therapeutic potential. However, challenges related to its bioavailability, stability, and dosage standardization need to be addressed forsuccessful clinical outcomes. Keywords: periodontal diseases; curcumin; bioactive compounds, inflammatory response, microbial dysbiosis