A systematic review on the effectiveness of organic unprocessed products in controlling gingivitis in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the available data on the effects of organic unprocessed products in treating gingivitis during treatment with fixed orthodontic appliances. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Multiple electronic databases were searched up to October 1, 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), controlled clinical trials, cohort studies of prospective and retrospective design, and cross‐sectional studies reporting on natural products for controlling gingivitis in orthodontic patients were eligible for inclusion. The quality of the included RCTs was assessed per the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2.0). RESULTS: Three RCTs were finally eligible for inclusion, yielding a total of 135 patients with an age range of 12–40 years. Organic products used were Aloe vera mouth rinse, ingestion of honey and chamomile mouthwash. Treatment follow‐up period varied from 30 min to 15 days. The results indicated that the use of the aforementioned organic products significantly reduced plaque and gingival bleeding levels as early as treatment started. The reduction in biofilm accumulation and gingival bleeding was significant throughout the studies' follow‐up. CONCLUSIONS: Owing to their antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties, nonpharmacological formulations successfully controlled gingival inflammation and plaque indices in orthodontic patients.