The Effects of Commiphora Myrrh Mouthwash Verses Chlorhexidine on Dental Plaque and Gingivitis: A Comparative Study

Introduction: Plaque induced gingivitis is a precursor to periodontitis. Mechanical plaque control alone is insufficient to eliminate dental plaque. Herbal mouthwash can adjunct self-performed plaque control, but clinical effectiveness needs to be evaluated. Aims: To evaluate the effectiveness of Myrrh mouthwash in reducing gingival inflammation and plaque accumulation in comparison with Chlorhexidine. Methods and Methods: Seventy-five patients diagnosed with gingivitis were randomly assigned to two groups (Commiphora Myrrh mouthwash) and (0. 2% Chlorhexidine). Patients were instructed on the use of the mouthwash including quantity, frequency, and duration of use. Gingival index (GI) and plaque control record (PCR) were obtained at pre-treatment and two weeks follow up visit. A feedback questionnaire was used to assess compliance and report side effects. Results: Both groups showed improvement in oral hygiene after the mouthwash use. The GI of the Myrrh group was reduced from 1.3 +/- 0.5 at initial exam to 0.3 +/- 0.38 (p=0.0001). PCR index was also significantly lower than the initial examination (81.6 % +/- 23.5 vs 24.2% +/- 22 p=0.0001). Intergroup comparison at two weeks, Chlorhexidine showed significantly lower PCR (13% +/- 21.2 vs. 24.2 +/- 22.1, p=0.03) and GI (0.1 +/- 0.2 Vs. 0.3 +/- 0.38270, p=0.01). The feedback questionnaire showed more compliance and reported minimal side effects with Myrrh mouthwash use. Chlorhexidine group reported taste alteration, staining and uncomfortable sensation more frequently. Conclusion: Myrrh-based mouthwash is an effective method to improve oral hygiene. it demonstrated clinical effectiveness in reducing dental plaque and gingival inflammation on the short term with minimal side effects. Key messages: Myrrh mouthwash is an effective antiplaque and anti-gingivitis agent. It can be used as an adjunct to mechanical plaque control in the treatment of periodontitis patients with a fewer reported side effect and a high compliance rate. However, safety over a longer duration of use needs to be evaluated.