A study to assess the plaque inhibitory action of a newly formulated triclosan toothpaste

Background/aims: Triclosan containing toothpastes have been noted for their potential to inhibit plaque and gingival inflammation. The aim of this stu dy was to determine whether a toothpaste containing triclosan and an enhanc ed fluoride system would inhibit de novo plaque formation beyond that of a non-triclosan, conventional fluoride toothpaste. Methods: This study used a 4-day plaque regrowth model in which 24 voluntee rs used toothpaste rinses as the only form of oral hygiene. Following a pro phylaxis and a single brushing with the toothpastes, 2x daily rinsing with toothpaste slurries was used over the following 96 h. Results: After 24 h, there was no difference in plaque area between the tri closan paste and its control paste. After 96 h, a reduction in plaque score of 5% was noted for the test toothpaste compared to the control paste whic h was statistically significant (p=0.028). For plaque area this reduction w as increased to 16%, which was also significant (p=0.006). Conclusions: These findings would appear to warrant further investigation i nto the potential value of the paste in inhibiting both plaque and gingivit is.