Clinical and microbiologic effects of commercially available gel and powder containing Acacia arabica on gingivitis

Abstract

Background: There is a need for an anti-plaque agent that can be used on a daily basis without the side effects of antibacterial chemicals such as chlorhexidine. The present study was designed to evaluate the clinical and microbiologic effects of commercially available gel and powder containing Acacia arabica in subjects with gingivitis.

Methods: One hundred and twenty subjects with chronic generalized gingivitis were selected and randomly divided into four groups: Group 1 - placebo group; Group 2 -Acacia arabica gel group; Group 3 -Acacia arabica powder group; and Group 4 - 1% chlorhexidine gel group. Microbial counts of plaque samples, the gingival index of Loe and Silness and the plaque index were evaluated at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks and 24 weeks. Microbial counts of plaque samples were evaluated at all visits.

Results: Acacia arabica gel and powder showed significant clinical improvement in gingival and plaque index scores as compared to a placebo. This improvement was comparable to 1% chlorhexidine gel. The difference between gel and powder with regard to clinical and microbiological parameters was not found to be significant at any time interval.

Conclusions: Both Acacia arabica gel and powder may be useful herbal formulations for chemical plaque control in subjects with gingivitis.