A randomized clinical evaluation of triclosancontaining dentifrice and mouthwash association in the control of plaque and gingivitis

Objective: The aim of this double-blind study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of the association of triclosan-containing mouthrinse and dentifrice on biofilm and gingivitis reduction. Method and Materials: Forty patients with a diagnosis of gingivitis were selected and randomly divided into four groups (n = 10): group TT-triclosan-containing mouthrinse and triclosan-containing dentifrice; group CT-control mouthrinse and triclosancontaining dentifrice; group TC-triclosan-containing mouthrinse and control dentifrice; group CC-control mouthrinse and control dentifrice. Patients were evaluated by a calibrated examiner using a quantitative Plaque Index and Gingivitis Index at 0, 15, and 30 days. Intragroup analysis was performed by Friedman test and intergroup analysis by Kruskal- Wallis. Results: Intragroup evaluation revealed a statistically significant reduction in Plaque Index for groups that used triclosan, independently of the group (TT, CT, and TC) (P < .05). Intergroup analysis suggested that only the group that used the association of triclosan dentifrice and mouthrinse (group TT) demonstrated statistically reduced Plaque Index at 30 days, when compared to the control group (CC) (P < .05). With regard to gingivitis reduction, no difference was observed between groups, although the association presented a faster reduction in bleeding levels. Conclusion: Only the association of triclosan dentifrice and triclosan mouthrinse statistically reduced Plaque Index, when compared to the control group; however, regarding the additional benefits to gingivitis control, more studies should be done to confirm the results.