• The Journal of the Korean dental association
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• v.46 no.5
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• pp.315-322
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• 2008

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effect of a chewing gum containing 70% xylitol and 0.23% Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract to remove dental plaque and reduce gingivitis when used as a supplement to daily toothbrushing for 3 weeks. The study group consisted of 75 adults with moderate gingvitis. Participants were divided into 3 groups(contol 1 group - Gum base, contol 2 group - 70% Xylitol, experiment group - 70% xylitol and 0.23% xanthorrhizol) and instructed to chew the study gum for 3 times daily for 3 weeks in addition to regular daily toothbrushing. Chewing xylitol/xanthorrhizol gum significantly reduced plaque index with significant difference by week 3(p<0.01). Gingival index and bleeding on probing were decreased in xy/ Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract group by 35.9% and 31.65% each in the same period. No adverse effects on the oral tissues were observed in any of the participants for the duration of the study. In conclusion, regular use of a chewing gum containing 70% xylitol and 0.23% Curcuma xanthorrhiza extract appears safe and effective for the removal of dental plaque and reduction of gingivitis when used in conjunction with daily toothbrushing.