The Influence of a 0.2% Chlorhexidine Mouthrinse on Plaque Regrowth in Orthodontic Patients

In a prospective plaque regrowth study focusing on oral hygiene during fixed appliance therapy 12 adolescent patients (mean age 14.1±1.5 years) were evaluated twice over 2-day test periods. In the randomized, double-blind study the influence of a 0.2% chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthrinse (Corsodyl®) and a commercially available dentifrice supplementing fluoride (Odol-med-3®) were compared intra- and interindividually in a crossover design with regard to plaque and gingivitis. Before starting the first test phase there was a 14-day preliminary phase for upgrading the oral hygiene. Between the 2 test phases was a 5-day “washout”. On the last day of the second test phase the patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire concerning their experiences during the study.