Biodegradable nano-dental-chip of nutraceuticals as a local drug delivery system for periodontal pockets.

Periodontal infections continue to pose a significant clinical challenge, primarily due to the limited residence time of conventional formulations within periodontal pockets and the consequent need for repeated administration. The present study aimed to develop a biodegradable, mucoadhesive nano-dental-chip as a localized antibacterial delivery platform for sustained periodontal therapy. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) incorporating clove oil (CO) and apigenin (AP) were prepared and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. Optimized NLC exhibited nanoscale dimensions (160-188 nm), narrow size distribution (PDI < 0.30), and high drug entrapment (>94%). Nanocarriers were incorporated into biodegradable polymeric films composed of gelatin (GEL) blended with either chitosan (CH) or carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), which were subsequently fabricated into periodontal chips via the solvent casting method. Comprehensive physicochemical, mechanical, and mucoadhesive evaluations demonstrated uniform thickness, acceptable surface pH (5.5-7.0), low moisture content (<2%), high resilience, and adequate burst strength. Molecular docking studies revealed thermodynamically favorable interactions between polymers and bioactive compounds, supporting effective drug stabilization. Consistent with the sustained release profiles of eugenol and AP, zone of inhibition and time-kill assays revealed potent antibacterial activity, culminating in the complete eradication of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and prolonged growth suppression of Streptococcus mutans. Stability studies further indicated preservation of physicochemical properties under various storage conditions. These findings highlight the nano-dental chip as a promising biodegradable, site-specific delivery system capable of sustained retention, controlled drug release, and enhanced antibacterial efficacy for periodontal infection treatment.