The role of hyaluronic acid in the management of periodontal disease

Hyaluronic acid is an extracellular constituent of connective tissue that r egulates the hydration and movement of macrocells in the tissue matrix. it plays an especially important role in post-inflammatory tissue regeneration , with a specific action on the migration of fibroblasts and on fibrogenesi s. Hyaluronic acid has been widely used with good results in the treatment of a large number of inflammatory conditions of the knee and in the treatme nt of the temporomandibular joint. Endogenous hyaluronic acid is found in e levated concentrations in the gingival tissue where if takes part in tissue repair after odontological interventions and in the restoration of tissue structure after an episode of gingivitis. These findings have led to the st udy of the topical application of this acid in the treatment of periodontal disease. Clinical studies carried out to date have shown a good outcome wi th a high degree of tolerance and acceptability by patients, which is indic ative of the clinical value of hyaluronic acid in the treatment and managem ent of gingivitis, a highly prevalent disease in the general population. (C ) 2000 Prous Science. All rights reserved.