The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a
sodium benzoate-
sodium bicarbonate (SBSB) compound on
dental plaque formation and developing
gingivitis. Eighteen subjects were given a prophylaxis and instruction in
oral hygiene to establish plaque-free conditions and gingival health for the study baseline. They were randomly divided into three groups. Each participant was instructed to rinse twice daily with either a 0.15%
chlorhexidine digluconate solution, the SBSB compound, or a placebo
solution for 21 days. They refrained from all other
oral hygiene procedures during this period. Plaque, gingival, and
stain indices were scored at baseline and at days 7, 14, and 21 during the rinsing protocol. A significant increase in plaque accumulation was observed for the SBSB compound and placebo groups in days 7 through 21. No increase in plaque accumulation was observed in the
chlorhexidine group. An increase in gingival
inflammation was observed in all groups, with no significant differences between groups. Significant increases in gingival
bleeding occurrence compared to baseline were found in the
chlorhexidine group by day 21, in the SBSB compound group by day 7, and in the placebo group by day 14. The present study did not disclose any plaque or
gingivitis inhibiting effects of the SBSB compound.