Periodontitis is an inflammation of supporting tissues of teeth caused by bacterial plaque. Bacterial aggregates get attached and are entangled in a self-produced matrix called biofilm. Causative agents are Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia. These are controlled by chemical disinfectants like Povidone iodine, Chlorhexidine, Listerine and by using natural /herbal products such as Tulsi, Neem, Guava, Propolis and Sanguinarine etc.

Chlorhexidine was initially known for its antiseptic properties for skin and later it was introduced as disinfectant in Dentistry for plaque control. Povidone Iodine has microbicidal action against gram-positive & gram-negative bacteria, fungi, mycobacteria, viruses and protozoans.There are nine varieties of listerine which are used for the control of plaque accumulation and gingivitis. Tulsi has anti-inflammatory and anti-infectious properties which is used to cure oral diseases. Neem is a powerful antiseptic agent for treating skin diseases and to reduce the bacterial colonization on the tooth surfaces. Guava is available in the form of chewing stick which is used for cleaning the tooth surface. Propolis and Sanguinarine have anti-plaque action which control periodontal disease.