2.3. Microbiological Examination
STERILE, PLAQUE
Microbiological samples were obtained from sites with a depth of minimum 5 mm at the initial examination, with 4 sites being selected, 1 in each dial. These sites were used as reference sites for samples collected at 0 and 6 months. The subgingival plaque was sampled for microbiological evaluation as follows: the site was isolated with rolled wool, the overgrowth plaque was removed with a sterile compress, and the gingival surface was dried, and plaque samples were obtained by inserting 2 sterile ISO #30 paper cones into the site, which were left in place for 30 s for saturation [Detection of the major periodontopathogens 