DOI: 10.36347/sjds.2018.v05i04.013

Pages: 236-240

Chemical plaque control measures like chlorhexidine reduces the caries risk for the patient by its antiplaque action but has several drawbacks. Scientific data has shown that oil pulling therapy can reduce plaque index. The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of coconut oil and chlorhexidine gel as antiplaque agents when used for gum massaging in children. 80 children between the age group of 6-15 years were divided into 4 groups of 20 each. Agents used in the study were placebo gel, 1% chlorhexidine gel and commercially available edible coconut oil. Children in group 1, 2 and 3 were asked to massage their gums with the designated agent in the morning for a period of two minutes for three months except chlorhexidine gel (group 2) which was used only for 15 days. The fourth group of coconut oil had time duration of 4 minutes. The plaque score were assessed at baseline, 15th, 30th, 60th and 90th day. Chlorhexidine had a property of substantively as its antiplaque effect was seen after three months also. Coconut oil at the end of the study had a significant decrease in plaque scores. Between the coconut oil group and chlorhexidine group, oil groups showed lesser plaque scores than CHX group. Placebo group was least effective. Coconut oil can act as a substitute for 1% CHX gel when used for a prolonged period of time. Thus, it can be an effective plaque control tool.