Effects of chlorhexidine and four antimicrobial compounds on plaque, gingivitis, and staining in beagle dogs.

Solutions containing 0.2% of a bis-biguanide, chlorhexidine (positive control), and four bis-amidinourea antimicrobial agents were tested in beagle dogs in a 12-week study. The five agents significantly reduced clinical plaque and gingivitis scores, and gingival fluid volumes in treated dogs, compared with water. All compounds reduced the stain area scores compared to water controls. Stain intensity scores were higher for chlorhexidine than for the four new antimicrobial agents and the water controls. There were no overt behavioral changes. Histological examination of oral tissues revealed no irritation.