Essential Oils Compared to Chlorhexidine With Respect to Plaque and Parameters of Gingival Inflammation: A Systematic Review

Abstract

In long-term use, the standardized formulation of EOMW appeared to be a reliable alternative to chlorhexidine mouthwash with respect to parameters of gingival inflammation.

Non-conventional therapeutics for oral infections

“…Despite the numerous claims and counterclaims, recent systematic reviews of the literature have failed to show clear advantages of detergent mouthwashes over good oral hygiene instruction on the removal of dental plaque. 19,20 However, it is possible that the failure of these products to realize their potential has been due to the mode of their delivery, since the tendency is for the agent to bind largely to the surface of the biofilm. One of the most commonly used agents in such pre-brushing mouthwashes is cetylpyridinium chloride and recent work has concentrated on exploring alternative delivery methods.…”

The Importance and Possibilities of Proper Oral Hygiene in Orthodontic Patients

“…It should be used as a rinse twice daily for 1 minute. As it does not contain any fluoride or its fluoride concentration is very low (in the newer products), has no effect on caries, but it has an antigingivitis effect According to a systematic review published by Van Leeuwen et al (2011), in long term use, the standardized formulation of essential-oil mouthwas appeared to be a reliable alternative to chlorhexidine mouthwash with respect to parameters of gingival inflammation. Listerine toothpaste is not established as effective product against gingivitis (Boyd, 2001).…”

Daily biofilm control and oral health: consensus on the epidemiological challenge - Latin American Advisory Panel

“…It is important to remember that although chlorhexidine has been shown to have the greatest antiplaque effects, long-term use (more than 20 days) is not recommended, because of undesirable side effects, such as extrinsic tooth staining and calculus buildup, along with dysgeusia, which can compromise treatment results. 48,[50][51][52] The maintenance of gingival health in patients with a deficiency in the mechanical control of biofilm is an indicator for recommending a chemotherapeutic for daily home care oral hygiene procedures. The antiplaque and antigingivitis action of a chemical agent for daily use must not cause adverse events and must not change the oral microbiota.…”

“…Van Leeuwen et al 51 published a literature review to systematically evaluate the effects of mouthwashes containing essential oils versus chlorhexidine, in regard to plaque and gingival inflammation parameters, through 6-month studies. The authors concluded that chlorhexidine presented better results than essential oils for dental biofilm control, and that essential oils did not differ from chlorhexidine in the long term for gingival inflammation control, and was therefore a good alternative.…”

“…The authors concluded that chlorhexidine is the agent of choice for dental biofilm control in post-operative procedures, and that essential oils are a good and dependable alternative for controlling gingival inflammation. 51 Cetylpyridinium chloride is another chemical control agent used in mouthwashes for therapeutic benefit. Special care must be taken when choosing the correct formula, in order to guarantee a high degree of bioavailability of the active agent on which dental biofilm inhibition and inflammation reduction depend.…”