OraGel: Delivery of Chlorhexidine Digluconate Through a Hydrogel-Based Powder to Treat Gum Disease

Abstract

Gum disease, affecting over 90% of the global population, leads to serious health complications, including tooth loss and increased risk of other severe diseases. Despite its prevalence, effective and affordable treatments for gum disease are scarce, with current options limited to costly medical procedures and ineffective dental care products. This study introduces OraGel, an in-situ gelling powdered spray formulated with chlorhexidine digluconate. Chlorhexidine digluconate, known for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties in certain mouthwashes, is hypothesized to be more effective in this application, where it is released gradually for sustained drug release and prolonged therapeutic effects. The research assessed OraGel’s antibacterial efficacy and stability through bacterial transformation, zone of inhibition testing, live/dead bacteria assays, and stability assays. The results demonstrated that OraGel effectively eliminated over 99.8% of bacteria, exhibiting significant inhibition of bacterial growth compared to control samples. Furthermore, OraGel’s novel in-situ gel formation allows for targeted application and enhanced retention at the site of infection, increasing treatment effectiveness. The optimized properties of the gel ensure maximum coverage and adherence to gum tissue, crucial for treating periodontal disease. Additionally, the OraGel hydrogel exhibited strong adhesion to gum tissue even after extensive rinsing, highlighting its stability and sustainability. The sustained antibacterial ability of OraGel confirms its potential as an effective treatment for gum disease. Furthermore, its biodegradable nature, easy application, and affordability characterize OraGel as a promising over-the-counter solution for wider consumer accessibility. Future research directions include in-vivo experimentation and exploration of other antibacterial agents in in-situ gelling powders.