Vol. 5, Issue 2, Part G (2019)
Efficacy of chlorhexidine vs herbal mouthwash in college students: A comparative study
Author(s):
Dr. Syed Saima and Dr. Reyaz Ahmad
Abstract:
Background: Chlorhexidine is regarded as the "gold standard" anti-plaque agent and many herbal extracts are now available as mouthwash for maintaining the good oral hygiene. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of two oral rinses-one 0.12% chlorhexidine rinse (CHX) and one herbal rinse (HBR)-on gingival health status over time.
Materials and Methods: Total 90 students in college aged 30±10 years were randomly divided into three groups: A (Chlorhexidine), B (Herbal) and C (Distilled water as placebo). These groups were asked to rinse with their respective mouthwash two times daily for 30 days after brushing and flossing. Individuals were given the same type of soft bristle toothbrush and whitening toothpaste. No attempt was made to modify participants routine oral care, except they were advised to refrain from use of any other oral rinse for the duration of the study. Data is analysed utilizing the Gingival Index (GI), Plaque Index (PI), and bleeding on probing (BOP).
Result: There was statistically significant reduction in plaque and gingival scores after 30 days in both the groups A and B. Though herbal mouthwashes has the ability to maintain good oral hygiene on daily basis, but still it is less effective than chlorhexidine mouthwash during treatments like gingivitis, periodontitis, trauma, etc.
Conclusion: Although chlorhexidine group proved to be the best anti-plaque and antigingivitis agent, it was found that Herbal group also showed gradual improvement in reducing plaque and gingivitis. Due to some side effects of chlorhexidine mouthwash like dryness of mouth and burning sensation, Herbal mouthwash can be used alternatively.
Pages: 403-406 | 2182 Views 981 Downloads
How to cite this article:
Dr. Syed Saima and Dr. Reyaz Ahmad. Efficacy of chlorhexidine vs herbal mouthwash in college students: A comparative study. Int. J. Appl. Dent. Sci. 2019;5(2):403-406.