Study of a bland dentifrice for persons with radiation-induced mucositis and vesiculo-erosive disease.

Althought the patient group was limited to persons with radiation-induced mucositis, lichen planus, and erythema multiforme, the study indicates the potential usefulness of a bland dentifrice to other patients with sensitive mouths. Although it is presumed that regular brushing habits will aid in oral hygiene and health, the specific effect of a bland dentifrice on control of plaque, caries, and periodontal disease cannot be assessed in this preliminary study. Also, no comparison was made with cleaning techniques in which dentifrice is not used. Therefore, this study indicated only that dentifrice with reduced flavor, like the one used in this study, may encourage better oral hygiene through continued brushing when irritation from regular dentifrices discouages it.