Effect of topical application of phenylephrine hydrochloride on hyperplastic gingivitis

A double blind study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Phenodent Type A (brand of phenylephrine hydrochloride) on decongesting hyperplastic gingivitis. Three solutions were used: a 0.5% a placebo, and a 0.25% concentration of phenylephrine hydrochloride. The periodontal disease index was used to score variables which might have an effect on gingival response to local irritants. Impressions were taken and casts were made on 45 subjects at 0, 1, 3, and 6-week intervals. An instrument with accuracy of 0.001 inch was constructed to measure the changes in the interdental papillae of the stone casts. No significant reduction of gingival volume was established for any of the three solutions.