To Compare The Efficacy Of Wheat Grass Mouthwash And Chlorhexidine Mouthwash On Ph And Buffering Capacity Of Saliva In Children – A Randomized Control Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Consumption of sugary substance causes bacterial adhesion to the tooth which leads to metabolization and acid production. When the pH of oral cavity falls below the critical pH (5.5), dissolution of minerals starts. Chlorhexidine is a gold standard mouthwash used by the dentist. Even though, chlorhexidine mouthwash is more effective in plaque control, it cannot be used for long duration due to its unpleasant side-effects which directs more attention towards the mouthwash with less side-effects i.e., organic homemade products. E.g., Wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) which has shown anti-inflammatory, astringent, antibacterial properties.

Aim and objective: To compare the efficacy of wheat grass mouthwash and chlorhexidine mouthwash on pH and buffering capacity of saliva in children.

Materials and methods: This single-blind, randomized clinical study was conducted on thirty 7- 13 years old children. Thirty children were divided randomly into 2 groups i.e group A – 0.2% chlorhexidine and group B – wheat grass mouth wash. Saliva is collected before the mouth rinse and 2 weeks after the continuous mouth rinsing once daily. The pH and buffering capacity of saliva was checked using saliva check buffering kit. Data collected were analysed using paired t-test and independent t-test.

Result: On intergroup comparison no statistical significant result was observed whereas on intragroup comparison highly statistical significant (p<0.001) difference was observed.

Conclusion: Efficacy of wheatgrass on pH and buffering capacity is same as that of chlorhexidine hence can be used as an alternative.