Clinical evaluation of the effectiveness of toothpaste containing zinc citrate and lactate, cetylpyridinium chloride, oak bark extract and sanguinaria to reduce bleeding gums

Background. Gingival bleeding is one of the most common clinical manifestations of inflammatory periodontal diseases and significantly affects patients’ quality of life. The leading role in the development of inflammation belongs to dental biofilm formed on the tooth surface and in the cervical area. Despite the importance of mechanical plaque control, not all patients are able to maintain an adequate level of individual oral hygiene, which necessitates the use of additional chemical control measures. In this regard, the search for and clinical evaluation of oral hygiene products with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties aimed at reducing gingival bleeding remains relevant. Aim. To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of a toothpaste containing zinc citrate and zinc lactate, cetylpyridinium chloride, oak bark extract, and sanguinarine in reducing gingival bleeding in patients with inflammatory periodontal diseases. Materials and methods. The study included 50 patients aged 18 to 45 years who complained of gingival bleeding and had a Mühlemann bleeding index of ≥ 2. The patients were randomized into two comparable groups. All participants received standardized instruction on individual oral hygiene. Patients in the study group used a toothpaste containing active components, while patients in the control group used a hygienic toothpaste without antiseptic or anti-inflammatory agents. Clinical effectiveness was assessed after 10–14 days using the Mühlemann bleeding index and the Greene – Vermillion oral hygiene index. Statistical analysis was performed using parametric and nonparametric methods. Conclusion. The use of a toothpaste containing zinc citrate and zinc lactate, cetylpyridinium chloride, oak bark extract, and sanguinarine was associated with a more pronounced reduction in gingival bleeding compared to the use of a hygienic toothpaste, while maintaining a comparable level of oral hygiene. The obtained results indicate the feasibility of including this product in the comprehensive treatment of inflammatory periodontal diseases.