New research published in General Dentistry indicates that the use of a germ-killing mouthrinse in addition to regular tooth brushing can significantly reduce plaque and gingivitis, more so than brushing alone.
Mouthrinses can reach nearly 100% of the mouth’s surfaces, while brushing focuses on the teeth, which make up only 25% of the mouth. Even with regular flossing, bacteria often are left behind, says Christine A. Charles, RDH, BS, lead study author and director of Scientific and Professional Affairs, Global Consumer Healthcare Research and Development, Johnson & Johnson Consumer and Personal Products Worldwide. This study found that using a germ-killing mouthrinse twice a day, in addition to regular brushing, could significantly reduce the occurrence of plaque, as well as gingivitis. The 6-month study included 139 adults with mild to moderate plaque and gingivitis separated into 2 groups. The first group brushed their teeth and rinsed with a germ-killing mouthrinse twice daily; the second group brushed their teeth and rinsed with a placebo mouthrinse twice daily. “Results show that the group using a germ-killing mouthrinse reduced its occurrence of plaque by up to 26.3%,” says AGD Spokesperson Dr. Janice Pliszczak. “Furthermore, that same group showed a 20.4% reduction in gingivitis.” Nearly 100% of participants using the germ-killing mouthrinse showed a reduction in gingivitis, while only 30% of the placebo group experienced similar results. Dr. Pliszczak notes that not all mouthrinses are formulated to kill germs, some are meant for anticavity or whitening purposes, so be sure to read product labels.
(Source: AGD, February 19, 2013)
