Year : 2018

Volume : Volume 9

Issue : Issue 3s

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Chawla R M.
roshanichawla@gmail.com

Abstract

Background:  Aloe vera is a natural product exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action. The oral health of blind children is compromised, since they are unable to adequately apply the techniques necessary to control plaque. Very few in vivo studies were available showing the effect of Aloe vera gel on gingival health. The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy of gel containing Aloe Vera (25%) with Chlorhexidine (1% w/w) and Placebo gel on gingivitis. Materials and Methods: A triple blind, randomized placebo controlled trial with parallel design, was conducted among 72 blind children with mild to moderate gingivitis, using gels containing Aloe Vera, Chlorhexidine and Placebo. Modified Gingival Index and Modified Quigley Hein Plaque index were used to measure the gingival and plaque scores. Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann Whitney U test was used for inter –group comparison and Freidman test was used for within- group comparison at different time intervals. Results: Aloe vera and Chlorhexidine reduced gingival (p= 0.00) and plaque scores (p= 0.00) when used for a period of 6 months. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Conclusion: Aloe Vera gel showed promising results in the reduction of gingivitis.

Keywords: Aloe Vera, Chlorhexidine, Placebos, Gingivitis, Dental plaque.