Effects of an oral hygiene regimen on progression of gingivitis/early periodontitis: A randomized controlled trial.

Background Periodontal disease continues to be prevalent globally, but little clinical research has been undertaken to evaluate the long-term benefits of a daily oral hygiene regimen on progression of gingivitis/early periodontitis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of an oral hygiene regimen (OHR) on the periodontal health of adults in good general health with established gingivitis and early periodontitis over 24 months. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted in adults with established gingivitis, with isolated sites of probing pocket depth >4 mm. Study participants were randomized to the OHR (bioavailable stannous fluoride dentifrice, oscillating-rotating electric toothbrush, cetylpyridinium chloride rinse, and floss; PG PG 87 completed the study. Mean GBI-BS, Modified Gingival Index, and Probing Pocket Depth (PPD) scores were significantly lower at each visit for the OHR versus usual care group by 28% to 39%, 12% to 18%, and 6% to 13%, respectively (p≤ 0.0009). The magnitude of reduction in median number of ≥2 mm PPD loss events for OHR versus the usual care group at 24 months was 74%. Conclusion Long-term use of the OHR produced significant periodontal health improvements versus the usual care products.