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Evaluating the anti-plaque capabilities of a copper-containing prophylaxis paste
R L Moore1, S M Feldman, L J Abbott
1Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, University of Louisville, KY 40292.
Journal of Periodontology
|February 1, 1989
Summary
A new dental paste with mono-copper citrate (MCC) significantly reduced plaque compared to a placebo. Daily application may be necessary for sustained anti-plaque effects.
Area of Science:
- Dental hygiene
- Oral microbiology
- Preventive dentistry
Background:
- Dental plaque accumulation is a primary cause of oral diseases.
- Effective anti-plaque agents are crucial for maintaining oral health.
- Mono-copper citrate (MCC) is investigated for its potential antimicrobial properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the short-term anti-plaque efficacy of a dental prophylaxis paste containing mono-copper citrate (MCC).
- To compare the plaque-reducing capabilities of MCC paste against a placebo in a controlled clinical setting.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, split-mouth design was employed with 36 dental student, staff, and faculty volunteers.
- Following scaling, subjects received prophylaxis with either MCC paste or a placebo in different quadrants.
- Plaque scores were recorded at 24 and 48 hours after a two-day period without brushing or flossing.
Main Results:
- Areas treated with MCC paste exhibited significantly less plaque than placebo areas.
- At 24 hours, placebo areas showed 92% more plaque; at 48 hours, 33% more plaque (P < .001).
- The anti-plaque effect of the MCC paste diminished over the 48-hour period.
Conclusions:
- Dental prophylaxis paste containing mono-copper citrate demonstrates significant short-term anti-plaque efficacy.
- The diminishing effect suggests that daily application of copper ions may be optimal for sustained plaque control.
- Further research into daily-use copper-based oral hygiene products is warranted.