The studies in this systematic review provide strong evidence of the antiplaque , antigingivitis effects of multiple agents .
BACKGROUND AND METHODS The author conducted a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the efficacy of  antigingivitis and antiplaque products  in six-month trials .
A clinical comparison of antibacterial mouthrinses: effects of chlorhexidine, phenolics, and sanguinarine on dental plaque and gingivitis.
This study compared the clinical efficacy of three mouthrinses containing either 0.12 % chlorhexidine , phenolic compounds , or sanguinarine , which were used unsupervised , in a placebo-controlled , double-blind study of 6 months ' duration . The study was conducted according to ADA clinical guidelines for evaluation of antigingivitis agents and was completed by 481 adults . Following baseline exams and a prophylaxis , subjects were r and omly divided into treatment groups matched for age , gender , and gingivitis severity , and were instructed to use the rinses in accordance with manufacturer 's directions . Followup examinations evaluated supragingival plaque , gingivitis , and gingival bleeding . Compared to placebo at 6 months , the group rinsing with 0.12 % chlorhexidine had significantly less gingivitis ( 31 % reduction ) , gingival bleeding ( 39 % reduction ) , and plaque ( 49 % reduction ) and was significantly better than any of the other treatment groups ( P less than 0.05 ) . Both the phenolic and sanguinarine groups showed moderate , yet significant , reductions in plaque compared to placebo ( 24 % and 12 % respectively ) yet were significantly less effective than the 0.12 % chlorhexidine rinse ( P less than 0.05 ) . However , neither the phenolic nor sanguinarine rinses were significantly different than placebo in their effects on gingivitis or gingival bleeding . These results support previous published results on the superiority of 0.12 % chlorhexidine when used in conjunction with professional care and as an adjunct to routine oral hygiene practice
The studies in this systematic review provide strong evidence of the antiplaque , antigingivitis effects of multiple agents .
BACKGROUND AND METHODS The author conducted a systematic review of the literature to evaluate the efficacy of  antigingivitis and antiplaque products  in six-month trials .