A comparative study of 2 fluoride-based mouthrinses.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of 2 mouthrinses (conventional Meridol and alcohol-free Meridol).


METHODS
A controlled, single-blind clinical study of 3 weeks' duration was conducted on 80 adult subjects in good general health and without severe periodontitis (probing depths no deeper than 4 mm). The mouthrinses supplemented regular measures of oral hygiene for the reduction of plaque and gingivitis. In preliminary examinations to determine general conditions of oral health, especially the level of plaque, gingivitis, and periodontal findings, the approximal plaque index, sulcular bleeding index, and gingival index were established for each subject. Afterward the subjects were provided with a professional toothcleaning, as required. Each subject was randomly provided with 1 of the 2 mouthrinses, to be used 3 times daily in addition to routine oral health measures. The 3 indexes were reevaluated after 3 weeks; in addition, an optional stain index was employed.


RESULTS
In both subject groups, a statistically significant reduction in plaque accumulation, as well as a reduction in inflammation and the tendency to bleeding, was observed. Reversible staining of the teeth and tongue was observed in fewer than one third of the subjects in both groups.


CONCLUSIONS
Comparison of the 2 Meridol mouthrinses revealed no difference in effectiveness related to the alcohol content.
Hagedorn
B
B
Department of Restorative Dentistry and Periodontology, Johannes  Gutenberg-University of Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55101 Mainz, Germany.
Willershausen
B
B
Ernst
C P
CP
Wehse
T
T
Schimmel
M
M
D000328:Adult; D000588:Amines / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003773:Dental Plaque / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003774:Dental Plaque Index; D004338:Drug Combinations; D000431:Ethanol; D005260:Female; D005891:Gingivitis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009067:Mouthwashes / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010512:Periodontal Index; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D014002:Tin Fluorides / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000588:Amines; D004338:Drug Combinations; D009067:Mouthwashes; D014002:Tin Fluorides; C059813:Meridol; D000431:Ethanol