A Randomized Parallel Study to Assess the Effect of Three Tongue Cleaning Modalities on Oral Malodor

Area of Science:

• Oral Health
• Microbiology
• Clinical Dentistry

Background:

• Oral malodor, commonly known as bad breath, is a prevalent condition affecting a significant portion of the adult population.
• Persistent oral malodor can negatively impact social interactions and quality of life.
• Effective tongue hygiene is crucial for managing and preventing oral malodor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of three distinct tongue hygiene regimens in reducing oral malodor.
• To evaluate the immediate and sustained effects of these regimens on organoleptic scores, hydrogen sulfide levels, and bacterial counts.

Main Methods:

• A single-center, randomized, parallel design study involving 168 participants aged 18-70.
• Participants were assigned to one of three groups: Philips Sonicare TongueCare+ BreathRx (STC), Listerine Cool Mint antiseptic rinse (LCM), or manual toothbrushing (MTB).
• Oral malodor was assessed using organoleptic scores, hydrogen sulfide levels, and bacterial counts at baseline, immediately post-use, and 4 and 8 hours post-use on Day 1 and Day 8.

Main Results:

• All three tongue hygiene regimens demonstrated a reduction in oral malodor.
• The STC regimen showed a statistically significant greater reduction in organoleptic scores at 8 hours post-use compared to both LCM and MTB on Day 1 (46.67% vs 22.83% and 26.19%, respectively).
• These statistically significant differences were maintained at all efficacy timepoints following a seven-day home-use period.

Conclusions:

• The Philips Sonicare TongueCare+ BreathRx regimen is statistically superior to Listerine Cool Mint antiseptic rinse and manual toothbrushing in improving oral malodor.
• Significant reductions in oral malodor were observed after a single use and were sustained after seven days of repeated use.
• Tongue hygiene plays a vital role in managing oral malodor, with specific regimens offering superior efficacy.