The effect of a quaternary ammonium-containing mouthwash on formed plaque.

The effect on formed dental plaque of a commercial mouthwash containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) was evaluated in forty-one adults. During this fourteen day study no oral hygiene other than the use of a mouthwash was provided. Plaque and gingival indices were scored on sixteen teeth at days 0, 7 and 14. The results of this study suggested that subjects using the CPC containing mouthwash formed less plaque than those using the placebo mouthwash. No change in the Gingival Index was observed. Of those patients using the CPC containing mouthwash, four showed a slight staining of the anterior teeth and five reported a mild burning sensation of the tongue.