Comparison of a 0.12% Chlorhexidine Mouthrinse and an Essential Oil Mouthrinse on Oral Health in Institutionalized, Mentally Handicapped Adults: One‐Year Results

Abstract

T he purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of a 0.12% Chlorhexidine mouthrinse and an essential oil mouthrinse on plaque accumulation and gingivitis in mentally handicapped adults over a one‐year period. Twenty‐seven institutionalized mentally handicapped adults participated. Gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), and probing depths (PD) were recorded and an ultrasonic scaling was performed (Baseline 1). GI, PI, and PD were again recorded after 2 weeks (Baseline 2). Patients were then assigned to either the Chlorhexidine or essential oil mouthrinse group. The patients rinsed twice daily under supervision with their assigned mouthrinse while maintaining their attempts at daily brushing. GI and PI were recorded at monthly intervals for 12 months, while the PD was recorded only at Baseline 1 and 2 and at 12 months. A paired t ‐test was used to compare differences between the parameters at Baseline 1 and Baseline 2. A 2factor repeated measure ANOVA was performed on each parameter after the Baseline 2 evaluation. A statistically significant decrease in the probing depth occurred as a result of ultrasonic scaling; however, no significant changes in the PI or GI occurred. Both mouthrinses produced a significant improvement in the GI after one month. Despite the improvement, the GI was still indicative of disease. Over the 12 months no further significant improvement in the GI occurred. A statistically significant improvement in the PI occurred in the Chlorhexidine group at month 1, but returned to Baseline 2 levels over the 12 months. No improvement in the PI occurred in the essential oil group. The probing depths remained the same over the 12 months. No clinically significant improvements in the gingival condition of these mentally handicapped adults occurred as a result of rinsing with either mouthrinse. J Periodontol 1992; 63:187–193 .