Effect of rinsing with an essential oil-containing mouthrinse on subgingival periodontopathogens1
Objective
To evaluate the effect of rising with an alcohol and essential oil containing mouthwash (LISTERINE®) versus negative control on subgingival periodontopathogens.
Methodology
A randomised control, double-blind cross over trial with twice-daily rinsing for 14-days with either an essential oil mouthrinse or a negative control following mechanical cleaning was undertaken.
The subgingival bacterial load of the following target organisms known to cause gingivitis and periodontitis were assessed:
- Porphyromanas gingivalis
- Fusobacterium nucleatum
- Veillonella sp
- Total anaerobes
Subgingival sampling was taken at baseline then the subjects were given their randomly assigned rinse, either the essential oil-containing rinse (Listerine® Cool Mint) or a coloured and flavoured 5% hydro-alcohol negative control for 14 days. A post treatment sample was taken on day 15, followed by a wash out period before the procedure was then repeated with the alternative rinse.
Results
It was demonstrated that use of the essential oil-containing mouthwash reduced the concentration of subgingival organisms known to cause gingivitis and periodontitis by up to 76.6% compared to a negative control, after 14 days of twice daily use1.
Reference:
1. Fine DH et al., J Periodontology (2007);78(10):1935-42