Determination of the effect of white tea consumption in patients with generalized chronic gingivitis

Abstract

Background: Tea is a very popular beverage, and studies have shown that tea polyphenols inhibit the growth and cellular adherence of periodontal pathogens and their production of virulence factors. We investigated the relationship between the intake of white tea and periodontal disease. Aims and Objectives: The aim was to determine the effect of white tea consumption on clinical parameters (Gingival Index by Silness and Loe, Plaque Index by Loe and Silness and Bleeding Index - Dichotomous index) in patients with chronic generalized gingivitis. Materials and Methods: Sixty patients, who consented to be a part of the study, were analyzed. Plaque Index, Gingival Index and Bleeding Index were used to assess the periodontal parameters at baseline and 1-month. The intake of white tea was defined as the number of cups consumed per day. Results: It was observed that every cup of white tea/day was associated with a decrease in gingivitis. Conclusion: Though, the results were statistically insignificant, there was an inverse association between intake of white tea and gingivitis.