Comparison of The Effectiveness of Probiotic and Chlorhexidine Mouth Rinses on Plaque Accumulation and Gingival Inflammation

Background: Chemical agents have been increasingly used as an adjunct to mechanical control. The use of a mouthwash augments maintenance of oral health through its antiplaque and antibacterial chemical properties The aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of probiotic and chlorhexidine mouth rinses on plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. Methods: A total of 60 patients with chronic gingivitis were divided into 3 groups. Group A ‐ 20 subjects were advised probiotic mouthwash, Group B ‐ 20 subjects were advised chlorhexidine mouthwash and Group C ‐ 20 subjects into a negative control group (normal saline). Oral prophylaxis was done for all groups at baseline. Baseline scores of plaque index (PI) gingival index (GI) and oral hygiene indexsimplified (OHI-S) were recorded. The designated mouth rinses were distributed to the respective groups and they were instructed to rinse twice daily. Variables were again recorded on the seventh and 14th day after use of mouthwashes and data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis. Results: A significant difference in PI, GI, and OHI(S) were found when group 1 and group II was compared with group 3 on day14 and day28. However, there were no significant differences in the mean PI, GI and OHI(S) between the Probiotic and Chlorhexidine groups on the 14th day of examination. Conclusion: The Probiotic mouth rinse was found to be effective in reducing plaque accumulation and gingival inflammation. Therefore, the Probiotic mouth rinse has a potential therapeutic value and further long-term study is recommended to determine its efficacy.