Effectiveness of Clove Extract-Dental Flossing in Reduction of Supragingival Biofilm

Objective: Dental biofilm in interproximal locations is difficult to manage with a toothbrush. Consequently, some products, such as dental floss, may be in benefit for these specific locations, with natural ingredients that can be used as a long-term substitute for mouthwashes with chemical-based bacterial resistance. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of dental floss impregnated with clove extract versus, using a dental floss impregnated with 5% chlorhexidine gluconate in terms for reducing a supragingival biofilm. Materials and Methods: Eighty children, aged 12 to 15, from undergraduate clinics in Babylon University's Faculty of Dentistry in Iraq, were sampled for this study and split equally into four groups. Group 1 (negative control) did not use waxed floss without mouthwash; Group 2 (positive control) flossed without impregnation with mouthwash twice daily; Group 3 (positive control) flossed with chlorhexidine gluconate twice daily; and Test Group 4 (G4) used the same dental floss twice daily with clove extract impregnation. Every group was assessed in this study after two and four weeks, respectively. Using the (Quigley-Hein Index) in which was modified by Turesky et al, the presence of a biofilm was assessed to the four surfaces (mesiobuccal, distobuccal, mesiolingual, and distolingual), giving each tooth four scores. Results: Between and within groups, there was a highly significant difference (P < 0.001) at two and four weeks. In group 4, the mean dental plaque value was the lowest. Conclusion: In comparison to dental floss impregnated with chlorhexidine gluconate, and traditional waxed floss, it was determined, that the use of dental floss impregnated with clove extract produced further decreases in the supragingival biofilm on the anterior teeth.