Clinical evaluation of chlorhexidine for the control of dental biofilm in children with special needs
Chibinski, A.C.R.; Pochapski, M.T.; Farago, P.V.; Santos, F.A.; Czlusniak, G.D.
Community Dental Health 28(3): 222-226
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0265-539X PMID: 21916358 Document Number: 648997
The aim of the present study was to assess two vehicles and forms of the in-home administration of chlorhexidine for the control of dental biofilm in children with special needs. Twenty-nine children aged seven to 12 years (mixed dentition phase) participated in the study. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trial was carried out with the following treatment groups: 1 - 0.12% chlorhexidine gel (CG); 2 - placebo gel (PG); 3 - 0.12% chlorhexidine spray (CS); 4 - placebo spray (PS). Ten-day experiment periods were separated by 15-day washout intervals. The parameters evaluated were plaque, gingival bleeding, and preferences of parents/caregivers. The initial conditions were similar in each phase of the experiment (p > 0.05). The treatments with chlorhexidine (gel and spray) achieved a significant reduction (p < 0.0001) in plaque and bleeding. The placebo treatments did not achieve significant differences (p > 0.05). The parents/caregivers preferred the administration of chlorhexidine in spray form. The topical administration of chlorhexidine associated to tooth brushing led to a reduction in dental biofilm and gingival bleeding in children with special needs. Administration in spray form proved easier and was preferred by parents/caregivers.