Chlorhexidine spray as an adjunct in the control of dental biofilm in children with special needs.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of .12% chlorhexidine applied via spray and the acceptance. A total of 26 individuals with mental health issues, aged 7-14, were included into two groups: placebo (control, n = 13) and chlorhexidine (experimental, n = 13). Both groups received two daily applications of spray during 2 months. The periodontal conditions were evaluated by the simplified oral hygiene index (OHI-S) and gingival index (GI). The evaluation of acceptance of the application method (spray) was assessed by questionnaire. Data were analyzed with nonparametric tests, with a significance level of 5%. Regarding the OHI-S index, only the experimental group showed significant change during the evaluations (p < 0.001). Regarding the GI, both groups showed significant changes during the evaluations. The method of application was well accepted by patients and caregivers, and .12% chlorhexidine solution applied via spray significantly reduced the rates of dental and gingival biofilm.
(© 2014 Special Care Dentistry Association and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)