An experimental gingivitis study to evaluate the clinical effects of a stannous fluoride dentifrice.

PURPOSE: A double blind, controlled, parallel group trial utilizing the experimental gingivitis model was performed on thirty young adults to evaluate the clinical effects of a 0.45% stannous fluoride dentifrice used as a slurry on dental biofilm formation and the development of gingivitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Following a thorough examination and oral prophylaxis procedures, subjects were randomly assigned to apply one of the following dentifrices twice daily over a three-week period: A) dentifrice slurry without active ingredients; B) 0.45% stannous fluoride gel; and C) Colgate Total dentifrice slurry (0.30% triclosan, 0.24% sodium fluoride, 2% copolymer). RESULTS: After three weeks, the stannous fluoride dentifrice significantly (p < 0.05) reduced gingivitis compared with the Colgate Total group by 39.7%. Gingival bleeding was also reduced relative to the Colgate Total group. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). During the experimental period, the mean PII scores increased almost linearly in all three groups without yielding any statistically significant differences. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this clinical trial demonstrated that, over a three-week period, the application of a 0.45% SnF2 gel significantly inhibited the onset of gingivitis compared to Triclosan/sodium fluoride/copolymer (Colgate Total). However, neither stannous fluoride nor Triclosan/sodium fluoride/ copolymer (Colgate Total) possessed sufficient antimicrobial activity to suppress biofilm formation in the absence of regular oral hygiene practices.