Evaluation of Anti-Plaque Efficacy of a Herbal and Non-Herbal Dentifrice: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Context: The primary objective of using dentifrice is to remove plaque biofilm from tooth surfaces and additionally protect teeth from sequelae of events - halitosis, gingivitis, periodontal inflammation, and dental caries. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and consumer satisfaction profile of using herbal and nonherbal dentifrice in controlling dental plaque. Settings and Design: The randomized clinical trial was conducted on dental students at K. D. Dental College and Hospital, Mathura. Subjects and Methods: The triple-blinded trial was conducted during July 2022 over 15 days among 50 dental students of the institute, aged 18-21 years selected using simple random sampling and allocated into two groups: Group A - herbal dentifrice (Patanjali Dant Kanti dentifrice) and Group B - nonherbal dentifrice (Colgate dentifrice). At baseline, open ended self administered questionnaire regarding general information was recorded followed by full mouth prophylaxis and instructions to brush twice daily with allocated dentifrice following modified bass technique. Plaque assessment was done for index teeth on the 7th and 15th days using the plaque index. Statistical Analysis Used: The data were analyzed using SPSS. Intergroup comparisons were done using paired t-test and descriptive statistics for consumer satisfaction profile assessment. Results: The mean plaque index scores for Groups A and B was reduced at 15th day in comparison to scores on 7th day. Consumer satisfaction feedback was found statistically significant for Group A with insignificant for Group B on few parameters. Conclusions: Herbal dentifrice had similar antiplaque efficacy to nonherbal dentifrice with satisfactory consumer feedback without side effects on using them.