Efficacy of a high bioavailable cetylpyridinium chloride mouthrinse over a 24-hour period: a plaque imaging study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the antiplaque benefits of a 0.07% high bioavailable, alcohol-free cetylpyridium chloride (CPC) rinse used after toothbrushing versus toothbrushing alone. METHODS: A digital plaque image analysis technique was used to quantify in situ plaque formation in a subject population carrying out modified hygiene using standard fluoridated dentifrice or standard dentifrice augmented with 30 seconds mouthrinsing with an alcohol-free mouthrinse containing 700 ppm CPC. RESULTS: Comparison of plaque formation 24 hours following "last hygiene" revealed that brushing followed by CPC mouthrinse use provided a statistically significant decrease in plaque coverage on teeth averaging 42% as compared with brushing only. Moreover, toothbrushing with a standard dentifrice in the morning resulted in 34% less plaque when subjects used the CPC mouthrinse 24 hours prior to examination. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: These results support the strong retention and lasting antiplaque efficacy of high bioavailable CPC mouthrinse and suggest that the plaque biofilms formed during CPC use are susceptible to more efficient debridement.