Effects of a toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan on periodontal parameters of subjects enrolled in a regular maintenance program: A secondary analysis of a 2-year randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND

The triclosan-containing dentifrices are effective in controlling biofilm formation and maintaining gingival health; however, there is limited information on their effects during the periodontal maintenance phase. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effects of a toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan on the periodontal parameters of subjects that have been treated for peri-implantitis and were enrolled in a regular maintenance program.

METHODS

Subjects presenting at least one implant with peri-implantitis and received surgical anti-infective therapy were selected. Sixty days post-surgery (baseline), subjects were randomized into two groups: (1) toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan + 2.0% PVM/MA copolymer + 1450 ppm fluoride (test) or (2) toothpaste containing 1450 ppm fluoride (control), and were instructed to brush with the assigned toothpaste twice/day for 2 years. They received clinical monitoring at baseline, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, and professional maintenance every 3 months.

RESULTS

Eighty-eight subjects with natural teeth were enrolled in the study (Test, n = 39; Control, n = 49). The test group showed a greater reduction in the percentage of sites exhibiting bleeding on probing (primary outcome) and lower levels of plaque in comparison with the control group after 24 months (P < 0.05). The mean percentage of sites with probing depth ≥5 mm was reduced over the course of the study only in the test group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A toothpaste containing 0.3% triclosan was more effective than a regular fluoride toothpaste in improving the periodontal clinical condition around natural teeth of periodontally healthy subjects enrolled in a regular maintenance program for 2 years.