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Comparison of effectiveness for Stevia rebaudiana and chlorhexidine mouthrinses on plaque and gingival scores among 12–15-year-old government school children in Belagavi City – A randomized controlled trail

AIM OF THE STUDY: The present study was undertaken to compare the effectiveness for two mouthrinses Stevia and chlorhexidine (CHX) on plaque and gingival scores among 12–15-year-old government school children in Belagavi city. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a triple-blind randomized controlled field trial which was crossover in design. The study included 70 children aged 12–15 years from two randomly selected government schools in Belagavi city. The study was divided into two phases: each phase lasted for 7 days separated by a washout period of 21 days in between them. Each group was subjected to both the interventions in a phased manner. The study participants were instructed to use 10 ml of the assigned mouthwash twice daily for 30 s for 7 days. At the baseline, examination parameters such as plaque and gingival scores were recorded. Reevaluation of both the parameters was done after 7 days at both the phases of the study. Data obtained was compiled, tabulated, and subjected to statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: Statistically significant reductions (P<0.001) in plaque and gingival scores were found for both the mouthrinse group at both the phases of the study from the baseline to the 8th day (immediately after discontinuing the mouthwash). CONCLUSION: Among the two mouthwashes, CHX had superior effectiveness in reducing plaque scores and gingival scores. Stevia mouthwash exhibited almost similar anti-plaque and antigingivitis effect and can be used as an adjunct to the regular oral hygiene practices and can also be potentially included in various oral hygiene products.