Comparative Evaluation of Effects of Kavala Gandusha with Rice Bran Oil and Mustard Oil on Unstimulated Salivary pH, Dental Plaque and Gingivitis - A Clinico–Biochemical Double Blind Study

Abstract

Introduction Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition caused by bacterial biofilm that accumulates on teeth. It is a complex disease that involves the loss of attachment around teeth due to the action of microorganisms which is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. Tooth brushing is the most accepted practice for the maintenance of oral hygiene. Chemotherapeutic agents such as mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine have been suggested as an adjuvant in reducing plaque formation however they can be associated with certain undesirable adverse effects. Keeping that in mind a novel traditional Indian method called oil pulling is regaining popularity. Oil pulling involves swishing oil in the mouth for oral and systemic health benefits.Aim The present study focused on benefits of oil pulling in maintaining daily oral hygiene and its effects on oral microfloral colony counts.Methodology The study period was six months and the duration of the study was 21 days. Evaluation of salivary pH dental plaque and gingivitis was done at baseline 0 after 7 14 and 21 days. After recording baseline data patients underwent thorough scaling and root planing. Patients were divided randomly into Group 1 and 2 and bottles containing mustard oil and rice bran oil to swish were distributed respectively. Instruction to swish 10 ml of the given oil twice daily for about 1 to 2 minutes was given.Results Reduction in the colony count was greater with rice bran oil than mustard oil.Conclusion Rice bran oil and mustard oil were found to be effective in the maintenance of oral health. Rice bran oil was found to be more effective compared to mustard oil in reducing the oral microbial colony count and plaque.