Comparative evaluation of efficacy of 0.2% sodium hypochlorite (Hi Wash) mouthwash with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash on plaque-induced gingivitis

Dental plaque has been proved by extensive research to be a paramount factor in initiation and progression of gingival and periodontal diseases. A direct relationship has been demonstrated between plaque levels and the severity of gingivitis. Hence, the present study was conducted to compare the efficacy of 0.2% sodium hypochlorite (Hi Wash) mouthwash with 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash on plaque-induced gingivitis.

This study included a total of 80 patients of both genders diagnosed with gingivitis. The patients were assigned into two groups - Group A and Group B with 40 patients in each group. Group A patients were given 0.2% sodium hypochlorite (Hi Wash) mouthwash and Group B patients were given 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash for 21 days. The data were evaluated for variables tested on bleeding on probing, plaque reduction, and gingival inflammation.

The mean plaque index, gingival index, and gingival bleeding index were recorded for both types of mouthwash i.e., 0.2% sodium hypochlorite and 0.2% chlorhexidine. 0.2% sodium hypochlorite mouthwash significantly decreased the amount of plaque, gingival inflammation, and gingival bleeding after the trial period of 21 days with the reduction of plaque index from 1.67 to 0.56. Gingival index was reduced to 1.78–0.56 and a notable difference in gingival bleeding from 92.56% to 34.56%. The effect of chlorhexidine on clinical parameters with a significant reduction. PI was reduced to 0.56 from 1.67, and GI* was 0.65 after 21 days, and GBI was reduced to 34.56 from 92.56.

The present study concluded that 0.2% sodium hypochlorite mouthwash was as effective as 0.2% chlorhexidine for the treatment of gingivitis.