Short-term side effects of 0.2% alcohol-free chlorhexidine mouthrinse in geriatric patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effects of a 0.2% alcohol-free chlorhexidine mouthwash applied twice a day during 30 days in patients over 65 years of age.

Materials and methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was made of 70 denture wearers over 65 years of age. The study subjects were randomly assigned to one of the two groups (chlorhexidine or placebo). The patients were instructed to complete a first whitening phase with a duration of 1 week, followed by a 30-day treatment period. The following data were collected: Silness and Löe plaque index, gingival index, the number of colony-forming units of Candida albicans at the start and end of treatment and the possible adverse effects of chlorhexidine.

Results: Significant differences were observed in the evolution of the Silness and Löe plaque index and gingival index in the two groups, as well as in the number of colony-forming units of C. albicans between the start and end of treatment.

Conclusions: These results suggest that the clinical benefits of antiplaque, antigingivitis mouthrinses in both study groups.