Clinical evaluation of chlorhexidine for the control of dental biofilm in children with special needs.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess two vehicles and forms of the in-home administration of chlorhexidine for the control of dental biofilm in children with special needs.

Basic Research Design: Twenty-nine children aged seven to 12 years (mixed dentition phase) participated in the study. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over clinical trial was carried out with the following treatment groups: 1 - 0.12% chlorhexidine gel (CG); 2 - placebo gel (PG); 3 - 0.12% chlorhexidine spray (CS); 4 - placebo spray (PS). Ten-day experiment periods were separated by 15-day washout intervals.

Main Outcome Measures: The parameters evaluated were plaque, gingival bleeding, and preferences of parents/caregivers.

Results: The initial conditions were similar in each phase of the experiment (p > 0.05). The treatments with chlorhexidine (gel and spray) achieved a significant reduction (p < 0.0001) in plaque and bleeding. The placebo treatments did not achieve significant differences (p > 0.05). The parents/caregivers preferred the administration of chlorhexidine in spray form.

Conclusions: The topical administration of chlorhexidine associated to tooth brushing led to a reduction in dental biofilm and gingival bleeding in children with special needs. Administration in spray form proved easier and was preferred by parents/caregivers.