Clinical effects of using stannous fluoride mouthrinses during a five day study in the absence of oral hygiene

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of stannous fluoride mouthrinses containing 250 or 1000 ppmF on plaque accumulation, gingivitis, microbial composition of plaque, and the ability of saliva to produce acid, in 48 subjects who abstained from oral hygiene for 5 days. Plaque formation was significantly lower in both SnF2 groups. Clinical gingivitis and gingival fluid measurements did not differ. Significant reductions in viable plaque organisms were provided by the fluoride rinses. No change was noted in the proportions of aerobic, anaerobic, gram-positive, or streptococcal bacterial populations. Both fluoride rinses inhibited the ability of saliva to lower the pH of a sugar solution.