A randomised controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of a multi-step oral hygiene product intervention to improve oral health in partial denture wearers.

Objectives: This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a multi-step oral hygiene intervention among removal partial denture (RPD) wearers.

Methods: A 12-week, single-blind, randomised, 2-armed, parallel-group, controlled trial was conducted with 49 RPD-wearing participants with mild-moderate gingivitis. The intervention group received stannous fluoride toothpaste, sodium fluoride mouth rinse, and an antibacterial denture cleanser foam. They were given detailed instructions on product usage. The control group continued with their usual oral hygiene regimen. Gingival health, denture cleanliness, and oral hygiene indices were assessed at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks.

Results: 48 participants completed the study, (one withdrawal due to concomitant medication). The intervention group reported 12.5% adverse events, with no events reported in the no-intervention group. Compliance rates were high for toothbrushing (99.4%), mouth rinse use (99.4%), and denture cleaning (99.3%). Significant improvements were observed for the intervention group in bleeding index, modified gingival index, and Turesky Plaque Index at both weeks 6 and 12 (p < 0.0001). Denture cleanliness also significantly improved, with lower Partial Denture Cleanliness Index scores at weeks 6 (p = 0.0039) and 12 (p < 0.0001). Overall, the intervention group showed consistently superior outcomes compared to the control, with significant differences in all plaque and gingivitis measures (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: This study highlighted the efficacy of a multi-step oral hygiene intervention in improving oral health outcomes among RPD-wearers with mild-moderate gingivitis. Findings from this study may inform evidence-based recommendations for optimal oral healthcare in this population, benefiting both patients and oral healthcare professionals.

Clinical Significance Statement: This study demonstrated that a multi-step intervention, including three specific oral hygiene products and education, can significantly improve oral health outcomes for removable partial denture wearers with mild-moderate gingivitis. These findings offer practical insights for enhancing oral hygiene practices and gingival health in this patient population.