Comparison of plaque control efficacy of a chewing gum containing Ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid (EDTA), methyl sulfonyl methane(MSM) and Xylitol with Chlorehexidine mouthrinse: A randomized cross-over clinial trial

Abstract Objectives Dental plaque provides a proper environment for the growth and activity of bacteria responsible for periodontal diseases and caries. As a result, it should be removed by individuals to prevent periodontal diseases and caries. Background Data: There are different mechanical and chemical plaque control methods. In one study is shown that dental plaque removal efficacy of dentifrice containing EDTA/MSM was nearly five times that of commercially available Colgate Total® toothpaste. In another study, authors found that xylitol-containing chewing gums caused a marked reduction in the count of Streptococcus Mutans compared to conventional ones. This difference was highly prominent in individuals with poor oral hygiene. In this study we assessed the synergic effects of Xylitol, EDTA and MSM in a chewing gum in comparison with chlorhexidine mouthwash. Methods This study was a crossover, randomized clinical trial. 24 patients were divided in 2 groups randomly. Group1 used CHX mouthwash twice a day. Group2 used novel chewing gum for 15 minutes twice a day. After 14 days, for every patient O’leary plaque index, Gingival index and Sulcus bleeding index were reevaluated and recorded. Professional brushing was done for patients. Two weeks were considered as wash-out period. After that, method of plaque control of groups was changed. After 14 days, all patients were reevaluated and recorded and were compared with previous data. Results Samples in 2 groups had no significant difference in age and sex. Paired sample t test revealed that there were significant differences between first and second period for O’leary plaque index, gingival index and sulcus bleeding index in Group1 (P 0.05). According to regression model results, type of treatment had no effect on mean of all indexes. Conclusion According to our findings which showed the similar efficiency of novel chewing gum and CHX mouthwash in improving and reducing plaque and gingival indexes, we can conclude that novel chewing gum can be introduced as an effective, Cheap and accessible tool for dental plaque control.