Alcohol-free Essential Oils Containing Mouthrinse Efficacy on 3-day Supragingival Plaque Regrowth: a Randomized Crossover Clinical Trial

Plaque is a biofilm of microorganisms responsible for the development of caries and periodontal disease. The daily removal of supragingival dental plaque represents a major factor in the prevention of caries, gingivitis and periodontitis. Plaque control is largely obtained by daily effective tooth brushing and inter-dental cleaning, but in some cases plaque removal can be improved by adding the use of a mouthwash.

An effective action of chemical formulation (especially antiseptics) to control plaque and gingivitis levels has been proved.

Most mouthwashes contain an alcohol (especially ethanol) in order to act as a carrier agent for active essential oils to penetrate the plaque, and to give the subject a "clean mouth sensation".

The alcohol content of mouthwashes, besides having antiseptic properties, serves the purpose of breaking down or dissolving active principles, in addition to that of preserving the formula components, although such content does not directly contribute to effective biofilm and gingivitis control.

However, there are some contraindications in the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes, like the use by infants, pregnant women, alcohol addicts and patients with mucosal injuries. There are also some undesirable effects, like burning or sore sensation, or a painful sensation for patients with existing soft tissue injuries, or a perception of dryness in the mouth.