Virgin Coconut Oil as a Biomaterial of Choice in Periodontitis Therapy Through PDGF Expression

Objective: Coconut is a natural commodity produced in large quantities in Indonesia. Utilizing coconut to produce Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) offers a potential alternative biomaterial that can be safely and widely used as a substitute for chemical treatments in managing periodontitis. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is one of the most extensively studied growth factors in periodontics and plays a crucial role in promoting the regeneration of bone, cementum, and periodontal ligaments. This study aims to evaluate the effect of VCO gel on periodontal regeneration in periodontitis by analyzing PDGF expression as a key tissue healing growth factor. Methods: This research is an experimental laboratory study using a post-test only control group design. The primary ingredient, virgin coconut oil, is derived from processing coconut into oil and further refined to achieve a gel consistency. Porphyromonas gingivalis bacteria were induced into the gingival soft tissue of Wistar rats. The sample group was divided into three groups based on the type of treatment administered. Observations were conducted on days 7 and 21, followed by immunohistochemical examination of tissue preparations to observe PDGF expression in Wistar rat tissues. Results: The study showed an increase in PDGF expression in the sample group. The elevated PDGF levels indicate the effectiveness of VCO gel in promoting the healing of periodontitis, as demonstrated by the expression of tissue healing markers associated with growth factors that emerge when the gel is applied. Conclusion: Virgin coconut oil gel can be considered an alternative treatment for bacteria- induced periodontitis due to its positive effect on tissue healing markers, making it a widely applicable option.