Effect of an antiseptic mouthwash on plaque accumulation

This study was undertaken to determine the effect of sodium peroxyborate monohydrate bitartarate on plaque accumulation in comparison with "no oral hygiene" and "brushing once before breakfast." Fifteen male resident students between the ages of 18 to 22 years volunteered for the study. 1. In all three stages of the study regeneration of plaque were observed in all individuals within 24 hours after thorough prophylaxis. 2. The tendency to plaque accumulation varied from person to person, from tooth to tooth in the same individual, and even on different surfaces of the same tooth. 3. The plaque scores and the range of plaque scores were lower on the first 2 days with the use of mouthwash when compared with tooth brushing on the corresponding days. 4. A reduction of 30.62% was observed with the use of mouthwash when it was compared with "no oral hygiene." 5. Plaque accumulation was 17.7% more with mouthwash than with use of the toothbrush. 6. A negligible reduction in efficacy (0.38%) was observed with this mouthwash in comparison with 1% H2O2, used under pressure.