An efficacy and safety analysis of a chlorhexidine chewing gum in young orthodontic patients

Abstract

Aim: The objective of the present study was to investigate the impact of a chlorhexidine (CHX) chewing gum in teenage orthodontic patients on plaque levels, gingival bleeding tendency and tooth staining. Materials and Methods: A randomized-controlled, double-blind, parallel study was conducted on 31 teenagers in fixed orthodontic therapy. Subjects of the CHX gum group were asked to continue their oral hygiene procedures in conjunction with chewing two pieces of a 5 mg CHX-containing chewing gum for 10 min. twice a day for 3 months. Subjects of the placebo gum group received the same instructions; however, using a CHX-free chewing gum. Plaque levels, gingival bleeding on probing and tooth staining were monitored at baseline and subsequently after 1-3 months. Results: Plaque levels significantly decreased from baseline at lingual/palatal sites in the placebo gum group. In the CHX gum group, a similar, yet non-significant trend was observed. At buccal sites, plaque levels remained unaffected in both groups. Gingival bleeding tendency significantly decreased in both groups, predominantly at lingual/palatal sites. There were no significant between-group differences in any of the efficacy parameters at any time point. However, the increase in staining was nearly five times higher in the CHX gum group. Conclusions: There seems to be no indication for a CHX chewing gum in teenage orthodontic patients when used as an adjunct to normal oral hygiene practices. © 2006 The Authors.