Anti-plaque efficacy of herbal vs. 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.

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Journal name: Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology
Original article title: Comparative evaluation of anti-plaque efficacy of herbal and 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash in a 4-day plaque re-growth study
The Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology (JISP) publishes original scientific articles on periodontology (the study of supporting structures of teeth) and oral implantology. It is a bimonthly open-access journal with special issues for specific occasions.
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Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Simran R. Parwani, Rajkumar N. Parwani, P. J. Chitnis, Himanshu P. Dadlani, Sakur V. Sai Prasad


Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology:

(A bimonthly open-access journal)

Full text available for: Comparative evaluation of anti-plaque efficacy of herbal and 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash in a 4-day plaque re-growth study

Year: 2013 | Doi: 10.4103/0972-124X.107478

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash is recognized as the gold standard for treating and preventing periodontal disease due to its potent anti-plaque and antibacterial properties. Despite its efficacy, long-term use of chlorhexidine is associated with several local side effects, leading to a search for alternative treatments. This study aimed to compare the anti-plaque efficacy of a herbal mouthwash against 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash and normal saline in a controlled clinical trial involving 90 pre-clinical dental students.

Efficacy Comparison of Mouthwashes

The results revealed that the 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash demonstrated the most significant reduction in both gingival index (GI) and plaque index (PI) scores. Although the herbal mouthwash showed promising results, its efficacy was not statistically different from chlorhexidine. The study also noted that the herbal mouthwash did not produce the staining effects commonly associated with chlorhexidine, indicating a preferable alternative for individuals concerned about side effects. Furthermore, the herbal mouthwash was identified as a cost-effective option for populations with limited resources.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate remains the most effective anti-plaque agent, the tested herbal mouthwash presents a viable alternative, particularly considering its lower side effects and cost. This study highlights the potential of herbal products in periodontal care and suggests that future research should focus on long-term effects and broader evaluations of herbal mouthwashes in preventing plaque formation and gingival inflammation.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the main objective of the study comparing mouthwashes?

The study aimed to compare the anti-plaque efficacy of a herbal mouthwash with 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash and normal saline, while considering potential side effects.

What were the key findings regarding gingival and plaque indices?

Results indicated that 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash had the lowest gingival and plaque index scores, followed by the herbal mouthwash. Normal saline had the highest scores.

Were there any significant side effects reported from the mouthwashes?

Subjects using chlorhexidine reported mild staining of teeth and taste alteration. The herbal mouthwash group did not report any significant side effects.

What factors might suggest using the herbal mouthwash instead of chlorhexidine?

The herbal mouthwash could be considered as a cost-effective alternative, especially for individuals sensitive to the side effects of chlorhexidine or those preferring natural products.

What limitations were noted in the study's methodology?

The short duration of only 4 days may not adequately evaluate long-term efficacy. A cross-over design could provide more conclusive results regarding the mouthwashes' effectiveness.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Anti-plaque efficacy of herbal vs. 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Study (Studying):
The study is a scientific examination aimed at investigating the comparative efficacy of herbal mouthwash against chlorhexidine gluconate and normal saline in managing periodontal issues among dental students. Its design, methodology, and results contribute significantly to understanding oral hygiene and alternative treatments, promoting further research in dental care.

2) Post:
In the context of this study, 'post' refers to the evaluations and results gathered after the participants used the assigned mouthwashes. The post-rinsing gingival index and plaque scores were crucial for assessing the effectiveness of each treatment, showcasing the differences and similarities in oral health outcomes.

3) Table:
Tables in the study present the numerical results, such as gingival and plaque indices, making it easier to interpret data visually. They summarize findings succinctly, allowing for quick comparisons between groups, helping convey significant statistical information about the mouthwashes' efficacies and participants' responses.

4) Surface:
Surface pertains to the areas of teeth and gums affected by plaque and gingivitis. Understanding how mouthwash efficacy relates to the surfaces exposed aids in evaluating the treatments, as the effectiveness can vary based on the degree of microbial accumulation on oral surfaces during the trial.

5) Activity:
Activity in this study refers to the functional role of the mouthwashes against bacterial plaque and gingivitis. Evaluating the antibacterial activity of the tested mouthwashes is essential to deduce their effectiveness in promoting oral health and preventing the progression of periodontal diseases among participants.

6) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene relates to the practices that maintain health, particularly in oral health. This study emphasizes mechanical oral hygiene practices like brushing, which were halted, focusing instead on the mouthwash's efficacy in plaque control. Understanding this contrast is essential for evaluating overall oral health management strategies.

7) Water:
Water is used in this study as a diluent for the herbal mouthwash. The interaction between water and herbal ingredients is crucial in determining the effectiveness of the mouthwash. The study assesses how dilution may impact the mouthwash's efficacy and participant compliance through easier usage.

8) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Referring to the capability of chlorhexidine and the herbal mouthwash to combat bacteria responsible for plaque and gingivitis, anti-bacterial properties are vital for evaluating the effectiveness of these treatments. This term emphasizes the primary goal of the mouthwashes in inhibiting microbial growth for improved oral health.

9) Bitter:
In the context of the study, 'bitter' refers to a potential side effect reported by subjects using the herbal mouthwash. Understanding sensory perceptions like bitterness is important as it affects participant compliance and overall satisfaction with the treatment, potentially influencing future recommendations for alternative mouthwashes.

10) Gold (Golden):
The term 'gold standard' is used to denote chlorhexidine gluconate as the most effective mouthwash for treating gingivitis and plaque. This comparison highlights the study’s aim to find alternatives that may be effective while minimizing side effects, making the term relevant in assessing treatment efficacy.

11) Teaching:
Teaching refers to the educational context in which the study took place, involving dental students. This highlights the dual role of participants in the study—not only as subjects but also as future practitioners who can apply knowledge gained from the study in their professional careers.

12) Indore:
Indore is the geographical location of the Modern Dental College, where the study was conducted. Its significance lies in the cultural and socio-economic factors that may influence the acceptance of herbal mouthwashes among the population, affecting the outcomes and applicability of the research findings.

13) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice, is one of the active herbal ingredients in the mouthwash being studied. Its inclusion highlights the natural approach to oral health. Understanding the role of this herb's properties can provide insights into potential benefits and further validate the herbal mouthwash’s effectiveness.

14) Burning sensation:
Burning sensation refers to a potential side effect experienced by participants using the oral rinses. Monitoring and recording such sensations is essential for evaluating the tolerability of treatments. Noting these side effects ensures better patient care and informs practitioners about suitable alternatives or recommendations in practice.

15) Punica granatum:
Punica granatum, commonly known as pomegranate, is another herbal component of the mouthwash. Its presence showcases the study's focus on natural remedies. Understanding its potential anti-inflammatory and astringent effects may contribute to recognizing new approaches in managing periodontal diseases through herbal dentistry.

16) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological concerns involve the study of the mouthwashes' effects on the body. This study evaluates both the therapeutic effects and any side effects or complications arising from use, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the pharmacological properties of both herbal and chemical mouthwash options.

17) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation highlights the buildup of plaque over time, a key focus of the study as subjects refrained from mechanical plaque control. The research assesses the speed and extent of plaque accumulation with each mouthwash, effectively measuring their respective anti-plaque efficacies and implications for oral hygiene.

18) Inflammation:
Inflammation in this context refers to the gingival tissue response to plaque accumulation, a significant aspect being measured through the gingival index. Understanding the link between inflammation and the efficacy of mouthwashes is vital for assessing their role in managing periodontal disease and promoting oral health.

19) Reliability:
Reliability pertains to the consistency of results obtained from the study. Evaluating the reliability of measurements related to gingival and plaque indices ensures findings are trustworthy and can be used to confirm the efficacy of the mouthwashes tested, enhancing the overall scientific rigor of the research.

20) Observation:
Observation refers to the systematic monitoring of participants' responses to the mouthwashes. This includes evaluating side effects such as staining, taste changes, and tissue irritation. Accurate observation is critical for understanding the interventions' impact, informing future research and clinical practices in oral care.

21) Perception:
Perception relates to how participants experience and interpret the mouthwashes’ effects, including taste changes and potential discomfort. This qualitative aspect of the study provides insights into user acceptance of products, influencing future recommendations for patient care and preferences in oral hygiene products.

22) Irritation:
Irritation refers to possible adverse effects on the oral tissues resulting from using mouthwashes. Clinical observation and assessments of irritation are vital for evaluating the tolerability and safety of the treatments, guiding the recommendations for future usage of herbal versus chemical mouthwash formulations.

23) Swelling:
Swelling can indicate oral tissue irritation or inflammation as a side effect from mouthwash usage. The study assesses any reported swelling to monitor the safety of the mouthwashes, emphasizing a careful evaluation of adverse reactions among participants to ensure optimal oral health practices.

24) Bleeding:
Bleeding, particularly gingival bleeding, serves as a critical indicator of gum health affected by plaque and treatment efficacy. The study evaluates potential changes in bleeding patterns, allowing for insights into the mouthwashes' effectiveness in reducing gingival inflammation and overall periodontal disease management.

25) Disease:
Disease refers to conditions affecting oral health, such as periodontal disease. Understanding how mouthwashes impact the progression or prevention of such diseases is crucial. The study emphasizes evaluating the treatments' roles in managing gingival health and avoiding complications related to poor oral hygiene.

26) Species:
Species in this context may refer to the various bacterial species involved in plaque formation and gingivitis. Understanding the interactions between different bacterial species and the tested mouthwashes provides insights into their antimicrobial effectiveness, highlighting their role in preventing periodontal disease.

27) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
In relation to the study, burning signifies a common side effect that may arise from using chemical mouthwashes. Recording incidences of burning sensations aids in evaluating the subjective experience of participants, highlighting tolerability and informing practitioners about potential side effects of mouthwash treatments.

28) Killing (Killed):
Killed refers to the effectiveness of the mouthwash in eradicating bacteria associated with plaque. This term highlights the mouthwash's antimicrobial activity, emphasizing the desired outcome of preventing bacterial growth that leads to gingivitis, thus underscoring the importance of effective ingredients in oral hygiene.

29) Salt (Salty):
Salt is connected to taste perception and can influence the subjective experience of using the mouthwashes. Evaluating how mouthwash affects saltiness perception enables a broader understanding of its impact on taste and participant satisfaction, crucial for promoting adherence to oral hygiene recommendations.

30) Neem:
Neem, another herbal component in the mouthwash, is known for its natural antibacterial properties. Its inclusion emphasizes the study's focus on alternative oral treatments. Researching neem’s efficacy can offer valuable insights into its role in oral hygiene and its potential benefits as a herbal remedy.

31) Food:
Food relates to the context of maintaining oral hygiene after consumption. The study indirectly addresses how mouthwash use may influence dietary choices or perceptions related to food tastes. Understanding this interaction could guide recommendations for effective oral health management post-meal.

32) Pain:
Pain pertains to any discomfort experienced by participants, potentially as a side effect of mouthwash use. Monitoring pain levels is essential in evaluating the overall tolerability of treatments, contributing to understanding how user experience affects adherence to oral hygiene practices with various mouthwash formulations.

33) Sour:
Sour is another taste perception that participants were asked about in relation to the mouthwash use. Addressing sour taste alterations could provide insights into the participant experiences, supporting the understanding of mouthwash effects on taste and potentially influencing user acceptance or adherence to treatment.

34) Drug:
Drug signifies the clinical treatment aspect of the mouthwash, highlighting chlorhexidine gluconate as a potent antiseptic. Understanding its classification as a drug emphasizes the need for careful evaluation of efficacy, side effects, and overall safety, cementing its status as a benchmark for comparing herbal alternatives.

35) Male:
Male pertains to one of the gender demographics included in the study participants. Understanding any gender-related differences in response to treatments can inform more personalized recommendations in dental care, ensuring effective strategies are tailored to meet diverse patient needs and experiences in oral hygiene.

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