Effect of stannous fluoride mouthrinse on dental plaque formation

A double-blind, crossover design study was performed on 29 young adults to test the effectiveness of 0.1% SnF2 mouthrinse (250 ppmF-) on plaque formation using clinical and microbiological criteria. Participants were assigned to either a placebo or SnF2 rinse which was used twice daily for 5 days. After an interim recovery period of 2 days, the participants used the alternate rinse in a similar manner for another 5 days. Clinical data collected at the end of each experimental period included Gingival Index (GI), and plaque scores. Supragingival plaque removed from each subject at the end of the experimental periods was weighed and then microbial enumeration was performed. Results showed that after SnF2 rinses, there were statistically significant reductions (P < 0.01) in plaque wet weight, number of bacteria per milligram plaque (CFU/mg), and total number of bacteria per sample (Total CFU). Visual plaque scores (PS) showed a significant (P < 0.05) but small reduction as a result of SnF2 rinse. No significant difference in gingival inflammation was noted. It is apparent from this study that, besides the well-documented ability of SnF2 to increase the resistance of teeth to demineralization, this agent is capable of reducing plaque formation. Long-term studies are indicated to examine usefulness of SnF2 in the control of early periodontal disease.