Evidence-based control of plaque and gingivitis

Area of Science:

• Oral hygiene
• Periodontology
• Antimicrobial therapy

Background:

• Inadequate mechanical oral hygiene is common among adults.
• Chemotherapeutic agents can supplement daily home-care routines.
• Two ADA-accepted antiseptic mouthwashes are chlorhexidine (CHX) and essential oil (EO) mouthwash.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of CHX and EO mouthwashes.
• To evaluate their role as adjuncts in daily oral care.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical trials comparing CHX and EO mouthwashes.
• Assessment of plaque and gingivitis reduction.
• Evaluation of microbiological safety and side effects.

Main Results:

• Both CHX and EO mouthwashes demonstrate long-term plaque and gingivitis reduction.
• CHX can cause tooth and tongue staining and requires specific usage instructions.
• EO mouthwash shows long-term microbiological safety with no observed resistance or changes in plaque bacteria.

Conclusions:

• Antiseptic mouthwashes are effective adjuncts for improving oral health.
• EO mouthwash provides a safe, long-term option for plaque and gingivitis control.
• Both agents can reach difficult oral areas, enhancing mechanical routines.