The effect of an experimental chewable antiplaque preparation containing chlorhexidine on plaque and gingival index scores.

This clinical cross-over trial investigated the effects of a chewable preparation containing chorhexidine-fluoride-xylitol, xylitol control tablets, or chlorhexidine mouthwash, twice daily, on plaque and gingival index scores of subjects refraining from mechanical cleaning of their teeth. Both preparations containing chlorhexidine were found to be efficient antiplaque agents when compared with the control. There was no statistically significant difference between the tablet preparation and conventional chlorhexidine rinsings with respect to the recorded parameters. Thus, an efficient antiplaque preparation can be made in tablet form, which may have advantages in instances where use of mouthwash solutions is impracticable.