Abstract

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the supporting structures of teeth, including the periodontal ligament, alveolar bone, and gingiva. It is a leading cause of tooth loss worldwide and is associated with various systemic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The traditional treatment of periodontitis involves mechanical debridement, including scaling and root planing, in addition to the use of systemic or local antibiotics. However, the challenges of drug bioavailability, targeting, and sustained release have led to the development of innovative drug delivery systems (DDS). These systems are designed to improve drug concentration at the site of infection while minimizing systemic side effects. This article reviews the various dental drug delivery systems employed in the management of periodontitis, focusing on the mechanisms of action, materials used, and their clinical efficacy.