Objectives
The primary objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the gingival status using the gingival index of the participants over a period of 6months. Secondary objectives were to explore between treatment differences by plaque index, simplified calculus index and modified lobene stain index at 3 months and 6 months.
Methods
Plaque, gingivitis, calculus and tooth staining were assessed in 90 participants. The participants used either an amine fluoride containing toothpaste, stannous fluoride containing toothpaste or a regular dentifrice. Clinical parameters were assessed at baseline, after 3 and 6 months of toothpaste use.
Statistical analysis used were CHI-square test, Students unpaired ‘t’ test, ANOVA 1-way analysis, Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test.
Results
After 6 months of product use, all three groups showed increase in plaque and gingival scores with no statistically significant difference. No calculus was observed in all the three groups. Stains were present more on the palatal surface than the buccal surface.
Conclusions
Detrimental effects of plaque bacteria on gingival health can be prevented only by a consistently high level of motivation and adequate manual dexterity.