Evaluation of the mechanical and chemical control of dental biofilm in patients with Down syndrome

Abstract – Objective: To evaluate the mechanical and chemical control of dental biofilm in patients with Down syndrome, using different experimental dentifrices. Material and Methods: Forty institutionalized children between ages 7 and 13 years in the mixed dentition phase participated in this study. An experimental cross‐over, blind clinical trial was used, having the following protocols: fluoridated dentifrice (protocol G1); fluoridated dentifrice + chlorhexidine (protocol G2); fluoridated dentifrice + chlorhexidine + plaque‐disclosing agent (protocol G3); and fluoridated dentifrice + plaque‐disclosing agent (protocol G4). Each experimental stage lasted 10 days with a 15‐day washout. The evaluated parameters were Plaque Index and gingival bleeding. Results: The initial clinical conditions between each stage were similar. Statistical differences were observed (P < 0.001) for the clinical conditions evaluated before and after the treatments. The dentifrices containing plaque‐disclosing agent, irrespective of their association with chlorhexidine, produced a greater reduction in the final plaque index. As for gingival bleeding, the dentifrice containing erythrosine and the one containing chlorhexidine produced similar results. The dentifrice containing an association of chlorhexidine and erythrosine gave the best results. Conclusion: With the methodology employed, it was possible to conclude that the combination of drugs (chlorhexidine, fluorine and erythrosine) within one dentifrice can be useful in controlling dental biofilm and in the reduction of gingival bleeding.