Comparative evaluation of efficacy of commercially available anticalculus toothpaste with fluoridated toothpaste among autistic individuals: A clinical study

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of commercially available anticalculus toothpaste and commercially available fluoridated toothpaste on calculus levels of autistic patients and to compare the efficacy of both the pastes. Method: Forty patients were enrolled in the study and randomized in test and control group by lottery method. Test group received anticalculus toothpaste and the control group received commercially available fluoridated toothpaste. Patients received washout toothpaste for ten days prior to commencement of the study. The gingival index (GI), Plaque index (PI) and Volph-Manhold calculus index was measured at baseline 4,12 and 24 weeks. Adverse events were monitored. Result: A statistically significant reduction in the plaque scores was seen over a period of 24 weeks in both the groups (P < 0.05). A statistically significant reduction in the gingival scores was seen over a period of 24 weeks in both intragroup and intergroup comparison. No statistically significant reduction in the calculus group was seen in intragroup and intergroup comparison over a period of 24 weeks. Conclusion: The anticalculus toothpaste did not show any statistical significant changes in the calculus score in intragroup and intergroup comparisons. Thus an oral health program that emphasizes prevention and visual learning is considered of particular importance for children and young people with autism.

Keywords

• Anticalculus toothpaste
• autism
• fluoridated toothpaste
• oral hygiene
• toothbrush