Evaluation of Adding Chlorhexidine Containing Varnish to the Conventional Preventive Protocol on Caries Risk Assessment for Special Needs Adolescents: A Comparative Study
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Abstract
Aim: Adolescents with special needs are very prone to caries progression. (1) providing them with intensified preventive regimen could be an effective intervention to mitigate the risk . This study aimed to compare a chlorhexidine-containing varnish to the conventional preventive protocol (fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash and fluoride varnish without chlorhexidine) on caries risk assessment for special needs adolescents over a 10 -month follow up period.
Materials and methods: A total of 22 participants were divided into two groups according to the tested regimen. Cariogram parameters were collected to generate individual caries profiles. A risk-based preventive program was implemented, and caries profiles were generated again at the end of 10 months. At the end of 10 months, caries profile was generated again. Statistical analysis was performed with a significance level set at P≤0.005.
Results: Regarding the main outcome, the chance to avoid new caries, a statistically significant difference was found before and after applying any preventive program For the “Plaque amount” Cariogram parameter, there was a significant reduction in the measured score after administration of the protocol containing chlorhexidine (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The regular use of preventive regimens is effective in improving caries-related factors in this study. Additionally, the inclusion of chlorhexidine was effective in reducing plaque amounts without diminishing the effect of fluoride.