A clinical trial to compare the effect of two antiseptic mouthwashes on gingival inflammation.

A trial was made comparing the effects of efficient and thorough removal of plaque and debris alone, and with a daily antiseptic mouthwash. The results showed considerable variation but no significant difference in gingival inflammation between hygienic treatment and a daily mouthwash with chlorhexidine-gluconate or povidone-iodine. Povidone-iodine caused less staining of the teeth than chlorhexidine-gluconate.