Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Alum and Herbal Mouthrinses on Plaque Inhibition in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND: Gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria that compose oral biofilms produce many metabolites that induce the formation of dental plaque. Dental plaque is the main factor for the initiation and progression of oral diseases. Plaque preventive measures like mechanical or chemical approaches can be used in combination with this. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: A study was done to compare and evaluate the effects of 0.02 M alum mouthrinse, herbal mouthrinse, and saline on plaque inhibition in children. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty healthy children of age-group 9–12 years were included in the study and divided into 3 groups of 20 each: group I: alum containing mouthwash (0.02 M), group II: saline, and group III: herbal mouthwash, rinsing two times daily for 30 days. Plaque index scores were recorded from each individual on the 1st, 15th, and 30th day. RESULTS: Alum group (group I) showed a highly significant reduction of plaque at 1st, 15th, and 30th day when comparison to herbal group (group III) and saline group (group II). CONCLUSION: Ingredients in the alum group (group I) were effective in plaque inhibition, it may serve as an alternative antimicrobial mouthwash. Further long-term study with a large population group is recommended to determine the efficacy of alum-containing mouthwash and herbal (Hi-ora) mouthwash in improving oral health status. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Vanishree BK, Gangadharaiah C, Kajjari S, et al. Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Alum and Herbal Mouthrinses on Plaque Inhibition in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2021;14(5):610–615.