The Difference Between Gargling Using Betel Nut Seed (Areca Catechu) Extract and Chlorhexidine 0.2% Solution in Chronic Gingivitis Healing

Abstract

The use of mouthwash is an effective way to help cure gingivitis. Mouthwash that is often used is mouthwash containing antiseptic. Recently, there has been increasing use of traditional medicines that are considered safer such as areca nuts compared to chemically synthesized agents. The aim of this study was to calculate the difference in the healing of chronic gingivitis due to calculus between gargling using areca nut (Areca catechu) extract and using Chlorhexidine 0.2% solution. This was an experimental test with pre and post-test control group design and involved two treatment groups. A total of 30 subjects with grade 2 gingivitis were being admitted. The first group was given mouthwash with areca nut (Areca catechu) extract and another group with Chlorhexidine 0.2% twice daily for three days. The mean gingival index in the group which gargled using betel nut seed (Areca catechu) extract on the first day was 1,93±0,704 followed by 0,40±0,507 on the second day, and 0,00±0,00 on the third day, on the other hand the mean gingival index in the group which gargled using Chlorhexidine 0.2% solution was 1,93±0,704 on the first day, 0,40±0,507 on the second day, and 0,00±0,00 on the third day. The mean gingival index decreased significantly during observation period in both treatment groups but when being compared to each other there was no significant difference in the healing time of chronic gingivitis in group which gargled using betel nut seed extract (Areca catechu) and Chlorhexidine 0.2% solution.