Double-masked randomized clinical trial evaluating the effect of a triclosan/copolymer dentifrice on periodontal healing after one-stage full-mouth debridement.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluates the effect of triclosan/copolymer dentifrice on the 6-month clinical response of patients with generalized severe chronic periodontitis (GSCP) treated with one-stage, full-mouth ultrasonic debridement (FMUD).

METHODS: Thirty patients diagnosed with GSCP (≥8 teeth presenting probing depth [PD] ≥5 mm and bleeding on probing [BOP]) were selected and randomly allocated to a control group (n = 15) subjected to FMUD and daily use of a placebo dentifrice or to a test group (n = 15) subjected to FMUD and daily use of a triclosan/copolymer dentifrice. Patients were analyzed for the following parameters: full-mouth plaque index (FMPI), full-mouth BOP score (FMBS), gingival recession, PD, and clinical attachment level (CAL). Patients were evaluated at 3 and 6 months by a calibrated and masked examiner.

RESULTS: Initially, the groups presented similar periodontal conditions, with no significant differences in any of the parameters evaluated (P >0.05). In both groups, improvements in all periodontal parameters (P <0.05) were seen at the completion of the experimental period. Additionally, the test group showed lower FMPI (3 months) and FMBS (3 and 6 months) than the control group (P <0.05). Moreover, the CAL gain was significantly greater in the test group, especially at initially deep pockets (PD ≤7 mm). Whereas in the control group the CAL gain in deep pockets was 2.7 ± 0.6 mm, in the test group the CAL gain was 3.6 ± 1.4 mm (P <0.05).

CONCLUSION: Within the limits of the present study, the use of triclosan/copolymer dentifrice promoted additional clinical benefits in the treatment of GSCP treated by one-stage FMUD.