Previous studies showed that Persica extracts have antibacterial activity against cariogenic and periodontopathic bacteria and can develop periodontal health; however, the clinical effects of gum as a delivery device for Persica to periodontal health in human, have not yet been investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of chewing gum containing Persica extract on periodontal health in a double-masked, randomized trial. From a high school in Babol, 72 cases with plaque induced moderate gingivitis were randomly assigned to the 2 weeks trial in the following groups: S+/P+ (n = 18): use of Persica extract chewing gum for 2 weeks and two sessions of scaling; S+/P- (n = 18): use of placebo chewing gum two sessions of scaling; S-/P+ (n = 18): use of Persica extract chewing gum; and S-/P- (n = 18): use of placebo chewing gum. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding index (BI), were measured at days 0, 7, and 14. Data was analyzed with t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Seven patients from Persica scaling group and five patients from Persica no scaling (S-/P+) group were excluded for complaining about the taste and irritation. The effects of extract chewing gum was statistically significant in reduction of GI, and BI but not for PI in Persica groups compared with the placebo groups in the days of 7 and 14 after the beginning of trial. Persica extract chewing gum had a considerable effect on GI, and BI. The use of Salvadora persica extract chewing gum may promote periodontal health.
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