UC Irvine

Goal

To identify in patients with dry mouth the effects of a novel test agent (Oral Essentials Hydrating Formula Mouthwash, Beverly Hills, CA) versus a control agent (Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare L.P., Moon Township, PA, USA) versus no treatment on dry mouth, plaque, salivary pH and buffering capacity, gingival health, and tooth sensitivity.

Materials and methods

In this cross-over study, ten subjects with dry mouth used test and control dry mouth interventions, as well as no dry mouth intervention in randomized sequence. Plaque Index, Gingival Index, Sulcus Bleeding Index, Plaque staining, and photographs were recorded at baseline and end of each study arm. Salivary volume, pH, and buffering capacity were also recorded at these time points. Additionally, subjects completed a questionnaire for dry mouth and dentinal sensitivity at each visit.

Results

Reductions in plaque presence and clinical indices were similar after use of test or control products (p < 0.05). Saliva volume and pH buffering improved significantly after use of test and control products (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The effects of a novel dry mouth intervention are similar to those of an existing OTC remedy and are significantly better than no intervention.