Comparative evaluation of novel nano-herbal and photo-biomodulation therapy for gingivitis in visually impaired children: A randomized controlled study.

BACKGROUND: Visually impaired children face unique challenges in maintaining oral hygiene, leading to higher risks of gingivitis. Chlorhexidine (CHX), photobiomodulation (PBM), and nanocurcumin offer potential adjunctive therapies, but their comparative efficacy in this population remains unexplored. Hence, the aim of the study is to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of CHX gel, PBM therapy, and oral nanocurcumin in managing gingivitis in visually impaired children. METHODOLOGY: This double-blinded randomized controlled trial included 60 visually impaired children aged 8-14 years with mild to moderate gingivitis. Participants were allocated into three groups (n = 20 each): Group A consisted of CHX gel (0.2%) applied twice daily, Group B with PBM using 980 nm diode laser on days 0 and 7, and Group C by oral nanocurcumin capsules (30 mg daily for 7 days). Plaque Index (PI) and Gingival Index (GI) were assessed at baseline, Days 7, 14, and 21. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc tests. RESULTS: All groups experienced significant reductions in PI and GI (P < 0.001). Nanocurcumin showed the greatest decreases (PI: 52.5%; GI: 68.6%), followed by PBM (PI: 37.5%; GI: 54.5%) and CHX (PI: 22.7%; GI: 30.9%). CONCLUSION: Oral nanocurcumin demonstrated superior efficacy in reducing gingivitis among visually impaired children, offering a promising noninvasive alternative to traditional chemical and mechanical approaches.