The Effects of a Cetylpyridinium Chloride Prebrushing Rinse as an Adjunct to Oral Hygiene and Gingival Health

A NUMBER OF MOUTHWASH PRODUCTS containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) are available. Data for individual products are limited, although overall the antiseptic has been shown to reduce plaque. Results for gingivitis reductions by CPC have been equivocal. This study was an active/placebo parallel group design to evaluate the use of a CPC mouthrinse as an adjunct to oral hygiene when used before toothbrushing. Plaque and gingivitis scores were recorded at baseline and after 6 weeks, following twice daily use of the active or placebo prebrushing rinses. Plaque and gingivitis were significantly reduced at 6 weeks in both groups with no significant treatment differences between the active and placebo formulations. Whether the order of rinsing to toothbrushing influenced these findings cannot be determined. However, the results further question the adjunctive benefits of CPC rinses to gingival health.