Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of herbal mouthwash with chlorhexidine mouthwash, as an adjunct to scaling and polishing in the treatment of subjects with mild to moderate gingivitis- a randomized clinical trial

Gingivitis is caused by plaque accumulation on tooth surfaces. The bacteria produce toxic antigens that lead to an inflammatory reaction in the gingival tissue. Gingivitis can eventually evolve to periodontitis with loss of supporting bone and periodontal attachment around the teeth. Chlorhexidine which is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent is considered as the gold standard for chemical plaque control. But continuous use of chlorhexidine has side effects such as increase in calculus formation, alteration in taste, oral mucosal erosion . Gingivitis is caused by plaque accumulation on tooth surfaces. The bacteria produce toxic antigens that lead to an inflammatory reaction in the gingival tissue. Gingivitis can eventually evolve to periodontitis with loss of supporting bone and periodontal attachment around the teeth. Chlorhexidine which is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent is considered as the gold standard for chemical plaque control. Herbal medicine have long been used as mouthwash and this practice is still relevant in many regions. The present study aims to evaluate and compare the efficacy of herbal mouthwash pre and post after use. It also aims to evaluate the adverse drug reaction caused on using chlorhexidine  mouthwash.