Comparison of mouthrinses containing chlorhexidine and other active agents with chlorhexidine mouthrinse-gel: effects on de novo plaque formation

Abstract

Purpose: Antiseptic mouthrinses containing chlorhexidine (CHX) seem to be the most effective chemical agents for plaque control. The CHX concentration is usually 0.12% or 0.20%, but formulations with lower concentrations of CHX (0.05%) in combination with other active agents such as sodium fluoride (0.05%) or cetyl pyridinium chloride (0.05%) (Cpc) are available. The aim of this study was to compare plaque formation at 24 hours after the use of 0.1% CHX mouthrinse-gel and mouthrinses containing 0.12% and 0.05% CHX plus other active agents. Methods: A controlled, randomized, double-blind, crossover clinical trial was designed. Thirty subjects underwent four consecutive experimental phases with four treatments: CHX 0.1% + hydroxymethylcellulose 2.5% (HMC), CHX 0.12% + alcohol, CHX 0.12% + 0.05% sodium fluoride, and CHX 0.05% + 0.05% Cpc. On the day of study, the subjects discontinued all other oral hygiene habits and were randomly assigned for treatment with the experimental mouthwash. Each experimental phase was preceded by a 28-day washout period. Plaque formation was recorded after one undisturbed day. Results: Formulations of CHX 0.12% with alcohol and sodium fluoride and CHX 0.1% + HMC 2.5% reduced de novo plaque formation to a greater extent than the mouthwash with CHX 0.05% + Cpc (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The 0.1% CHX gel presents an anti-plaque efficacy similar to that of mouthwashes containing 0.12% CHX and other active agents, and was more effective at inhibiting plaque formation than the mouthwash containing 0.05% CHX with Cpc.