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Comparison of the Antimicrobial Activity of Aloevera Mouthwash with Chlorhexidine Mouthwash in Fixed Orthodontic Patients.

AIM
Aim of the present research was to compare the antimicrobial activity of Aloevera mouthwash with chlorhexidine mouthwash in fixed orthodontic patients.


MATERIALS AND METHODS
A sample of 90 fixed Orthodontic patients participated in this study. Full-mouth oral prophylaxis was performed for every patient at the start of the study. Patients were advised to brush twice a day with the modified bass technique and rinse with respective mouthwashes for 20 days. Once the patients with fixed orthodontic appliances were accepted to participate in the study, they received dental prophylaxis which includes the removal of plaque, calculus, and stains from the teeth by scaling and polishing. Then they were randomly divided into the following three groups: chlorhexidine (group I), Aloevera (group II), and control (group III). A washout period of 8-10 days (baseline) was awaited post-oral prophylaxis and then the following clinical parameters were recorded: Plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI). The data included clinical examination, inspection, and microscopic observation techniques.


RESULTS
The mean reduction of the PI score on the 20th day of group II was 0.03 ± 0.18, group I was 0.43 ± 0.49, and the control group was 1.65 ± 0.88. The mean reduction of GI score on the 20th day of group II was 0.83 ± 0.40, group I was 0.93 ± 0.55, and group III was 1.85 ± 0.77. Student's t-test had been used to evaluate within each group between day 1 and day 20, group I and group II had shown higher differences compared to control.


CONCLUSION
In conclusion, both chlorhexidine mouthwash and Aloevera mouthwash are important chemical adjuncts in controlling gingival inflammation, gingival bleeding, and plaque accumulation in orthodontic patients. Aloevera could be an alternative to chlorhexidine in patients who are seeking a chemical-free, indigenous, and patient-friendly oral hygiene aid.


CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
Chlorhexidine is known to produce temporary tooth discoloration, allergic responses, dry mouth, burning in the mouth, and transient bad taste, which deter patients from using this mouthwash. The hunt for plant extract-based antimicrobial medicines has been prompted by the emergence of medication resistance and the unfavorable side effects of several antibiotics. These natural remedies can be a valuable substitute for creating a comparable effect.