Effect of a Chemotherapeutic Agent Delivered by an Oral Irrigation Device on Plaque, Gingivitis, and Subgingival Microflora

Sixty-six adults were examined in a double-blind study which examined the effect of an antimicrobial agent delivered by an oral irrigating device. Each subject received a randomized half mouth dental prophylaxis. The Gingival Index, gingival crevicular fluid volume, Plaque Index, Modified Papillary Bleeding Index, probing pocket depth, and probing attachment levels were determined at baseline, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks. The composition of the subgingival microflora in the prophied and non-prophied quadrants was examined by phase contrast microscopy and by immunofluorescence. This study demonstrates that an antimicrobial product delivered by an oral irrigating device could result in significant reductions in plaque, bacterial cell counts, and gingival bleeding and may, therefore, be an effective adjunct to normal oral hygiene.