Comparing Mouth Rinses (and Chewing Gum) in Regard to Streptococcus Mutans Reduction

Comparing Chlorhexidine Gluconate Rinse, Sodium Fluoride Rinse, Water Rinse, and Chewing Gum in Regard to Streptococcus Mutans Reduction

This study compared four mouth rinses/chews for their ability to reduce Streptococcus Mutans after usage. The four that were compared were chlorhexidine gluconate (0.12%), sodium fluoride (0.05%), paraffin wax chewing gum (sugar free), and deionized water. The paraffin wax chewing gum replaced the originally planned coconut oil and served as a placebo comparator.

The study was a randomized controlled clinical trial, unblinded. After obtaining consent and assent, respectively, and following review of medical history with regard to inclusion/exclusion criteria, if the participant met eligibility criteria, the participant was randomly assigned to one of four groups being studied: chlorhexidine gluconate (0.12%), sodium fluoride (0.05%), paraffin wax chewing gum (sugar-free) or deionized water with a randomization ratio of 1:1:1:1. A pre rinse/chew salivary sample was obtained by having the participant spit into a sterile test tube. The participant then either rinsed with 10mL of the assigned rinse for a timed 30 seconds and expectorated, or chewed paraffin wax chewing gum for 2 minutes. A post rinse/chew salivary sample was taken similarly to the pre rinse/chew sample. The samples were transported to a microbiology lab for incubation and quantitative analysis of Streptococcus Mutans. Morphological identification of the bacterial colonies was then confirmed using Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time of Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients presenting to the dental clinic for routine dental treatment (including recall exams, new patient exams, and operative appointments) who are American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) class I or II
• Cooperative patients classified as 3 or 4 according to the Frankl Behavioral Rating Scale,
• No known allergies or sensitivities to products or ingredients being tested
• Had untreated cavities
• Nothing to eat/drink for 1 hour prior to dental appointment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who are ASA class III, IV, V or VI
• Known allergies or sensitivities to any of the mouth rinses or any of the ingredients in the mouth rinses to be tested
• Non-English speaking parent/participant
• Patient presenting to the clinic as a walk in or emergency appointment
• Patient experiencing any pain or sensitivity
• Precooperative or uncooperative behavior or behavior classified as 1 or 2 according to the Frankl Behavioral Rating Scale