ABSTRACT
Objective: This parallel controlled clinical trial evaluated the effect of a gel containing
Lippia sidoides essential oil on plaque and gingivitis control.
Methods: Thirty patients (n=30) were randomly selected and allocated into three groups:
Lippia sidoides (LS, n=10), chlorhexidine (CLX, n=10) or placebo (control, n=10).
Plaque and bleeding index were recorded at baseline and after three months. All volunteers
were instructed to brush with the gel three times a day throughout the experiment
period.
Results: There was a significant reduction on plaque and gingivitis in the test groups
(P<.05), but no statistically significant difference was observed between them (P<.05).
Conclusion: A gel preparation containing 10% Lippia sidoides essential oil was an
efficient herbal antiplaque and antigingivitis agent. (Eur J Dent 2013;7:28-34)
Key words
Oral hygiene - gingival status - dental students