Curcumin as an adjunct in periodontal therapy: local effects, delivery systems, and clinical perspectives

Abstract

Curcumin, the active polyphenol in turmeric (Curcuma longa), is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it a promising therapeutic agent for a range of diseases, including neuroinflammatory conditions and periodontal disease. Periodontitis, a prevalent oral disease, is associated with chronic inflammation and bacterial infection. Curcumin has demonstrated antibacterial effects against periodontal pathogens such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Tannerella forsythia when applied locally as a sub-gingival gel in conjunction with scaling and root planning (SRP). Furthermore, curcumin's ability to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) under visible light exposure enhances its effects through photodynamic therapy (PDT) and potentiates its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions. Curcumin demonstrates promising potential as an adjunctive therapy for periodontitis, indicating that it may serve as a valuable adjuvant strategy for improving periodontal management. Nonetheless, additional well-designed clinical and translational studies are warranted to confirm these benefits.