A study to assess the plaque inhibitory activity of a new triclosan mouthrinse formulation

Background/aims: Toothpastes and mouthrinses containing triclosan have been shown to be of some value at inhibiting both plaque and gingivitis. Howeve r much improved activity can be obtained by the addition of other chemicals which increase substantivity or antimicrobial activity. The present study was designed to determine whether a new mouthwash formulation containing a triglyceride oil was capable of reducing plaque reformation when compared t o a control rinse containing neither triclosan or oil. Methods: A total of 24 subjects took part in a double-blind, single-centre, crossover study in which rinses were used as the only form of oral hygiene over a 4-day period. On the 1st day of each period, the subjects were give n a prophylaxis to remove all plaque and calculus deposits. A single superv ised rinse was taken and subsequent 2x daily rinses over the following 3 da ys. 24 and 96 h after the prophylaxis, the volunteers returned to the clini c, the plaque disclosed and assessed by plaque index and area. The test pro cedure and wash-out phase were repeated until all of the subjects had used both rinses. Results: After 24 h, a 12% reduction in plaque score and a 25% reduction in plaque area was noted for the triclosan/oil rinse compared to the control rinse; however, these reductions were not significant (p>0.05). After 96 h, the triclosan/oil rinse failed to produce a numerical or statistical reduc tion in plaque whether measured by plaque score or area. Conclusions: These findings would suggest that the triclosan/oil rinse woul d be of little value at inhibiting dental plaque whether used alone or as a n adjunct to conventional oral hygiene measures.