The effect of the long-term use of 0.5% chlorhexidine dentifrice in orthodontic patients: a double-blind randomized study

Abstract

The effect of chlorhexidine in inhibiting plaque formation and reducing gingivitis and dental caries is well-established in the literature. However, some studies raised concerns on the use of chlorhexidine dentifrices because many ingredients commonly added to the dentifrices interact and inactivate the chlorhexidine, and additionally, the use of chlorhexidine products frequently produces toothstaining. This double-blind and randomized-controlled trial aims at analyzing a 0.5% chlorhexidine dentifrice in relation to enamel extrinsic staining development, calculus, gingivitis, bleeding and dental plaque, during a long time period, to verify the security of this formulation. Volunteers with fixed orthodontic therapy will use the following dentifrices: control, 1,100 ppm F, NaF (group A, n = 30) and experimental, chlorhexidine 0.50% (group B, n = 30). At baseline, after 6, 12 and 24 weeks, clinical examinations will be carried out. Staining, calculus, gingivitis, bleeding and dental plaque data will be analyzed by Friedman and Dunn's post hoc tests, to evaluate the performance of each group during the experimental periods. To detect the best treatment after 24 weeks (24-b) the data will be evaluated by Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s post hoc tests.