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Abstract
It is well known that gingivitis is a bacterially-elicited inflammation of the marginal
gingiva. A number of chemical agents have been evaluated over the years with regard
to their antimicrobial effects in the oral cavity; however, all are associated with
side effects that prohibit regular long-term use. Therefore, the effectiveness of
a natural Mexican Sanguinaria extract (Polygonum aviculare L.) against gingivitis,
was assessed in 60 male dentistry students between the ages of 18 and 25 years. Over
a period of 2 weeks, these students used the Sanguinaria extract (1 mg/ml) in oral
rinse twice daily as a unique oral health measurement (no tooth-brushing was allowed).
The O'Leary Plaque Index and the Löe and Silness Gingivitis Index were recorded at
baseline (day 0) in all the subjects. Also, a complete prophylaxis was performed after
both indices were obtained. The antibacterial and antiinflammatory effects of the
extract were evaluated on days 7, 11 and 14. The results showed that the Mexican Sanguinaria
extract in oral rinse significantly decreased gingivitis from day 0 (-x=1. 056) to
day 14 (-x=1.011) (P</=0.05). In contrast, a significant increase in dental plaque
was observed from day 0 (-x=91.38) to day 14 (-x=98.69) (P</=0.05); however, the consistency
of this plaque permitted its mechanical flushing easily. From this study, it is concluded
that the Mexican Sanguinaria extract in oral rinse can be employed supportively in
the therapy of gingivitis.