Comparative Evaluation of Different Mouthrinses on Plaque and Salivary Parameters among 12–15 Years Old Schoolchildren: A Randomized Field Trial

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of xylitol, sodium fluoride, and xylitol–sodium fluoride mouthrinses on the plaque, salivary physicochemical parameters, and Streptococcus mutans counts. Materials and methods: A randomized controlled field trial was conducted on 60 children in the age group of 12–15 years who were randomized into three groups namely xylitol (group I), sodium fluoride (group II), and xylitol–sodium fluoride (group III). The S. mutans counts, plaque scores, and salivary parameters were measured before and after 21 days of mouthrinse usage. Caries experience was measured using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index at baseline. Acceptability of mouthrinses was evaluated by a prevailed questionnaire. The Chi-square test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and paired t-test were employed. Results: The mean DMFT of group I, group II, and group III were (4.20 + 1.196) (4.45 + 0.945) (4.15 + 1.040), respectively. There was statistically significant difference observed in plaque scores in all three groups from baseline to 21 days (p < 0.05). There was statistically significant increase in flow rate observed in group II and group III from baseline to 21 days. S. mutans count reduced significantly in group I and group II from baseline to 21 days. The order of overall acceptability of mouthrinse was group III>group II>group I (p < 0.05). Conclusion: There was a reduction in plaque scores, improvement in salivary parameters, and reduction in S. mutans counts observed between the xylitol, sodium fluoride, and combination (xylitol and sodium fluoride) mouthrinses. The combination of xylitol–sodium fluoride was the most acceptable mouthrinse. Clinical significance: In the current years, the use of chemical plaque control is one of the best ways of periodontal disease prevention. In the present study, the combination of xylitol and sodium fluoride mouthrinse was better accepted by the children. Also, a synergistic effect of fluoride and xylitol on inhibiting glycolytic activity has an added advantage to promote remineralization of teeth.