A randomized double blind crossover placebo-controlled clinical trial to assess the effects of a mouthwash containing chlorine dioxide on oral malodor
2008

Effects of Chlorine Dioxide Mouthwash on Bad Breath

Sample size: 15 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Shinada Kayoko, Ueno Masayuki, Konishi Chisato, Takehara Sachiko, Yokoyama Sayaka, Kawaguchi Yoko

Primary Institution: Tokyo Medical and Dental University

Hypothesis

The mouthwash containing chlorine dioxide will effectively reduce oral malodor in humans when volatile sulfur compounds are analyzed with gas chromatography.

Conclusion

The study found that chlorine dioxide mouthwash significantly reduced morning bad breath for up to 4 hours in healthy subjects.

Supporting Evidence

  • The mouthwash containing ClO2 improved morning bad breath according to organoleptic measurements.
  • Concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide were significantly reduced after using the ClO2 mouthwash.
  • The study demonstrated significant improvements in oral malodor for up to 4 hours after rinsing.

Takeaway

Using a special mouthwash with chlorine dioxide can help make your breath smell better for a long time after you rinse your mouth.

Methodology

A randomized, double blind, crossover, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 15 healthy male volunteers who used either a chlorine dioxide mouthwash or a placebo, with evaluations of oral malodor using organoleptic measurements and gas chromatography.

Potential Biases

The study design may have biases due to the exclusion of female participants and the short follow-up period.

Limitations

The study was exploratory and only assessed short-term effects of the mouthwash, and results may not apply to chronic halitosis or different populations.

Participant Demographics

15 healthy male volunteers aged 19–38 years, mean age 22.9 ± 6.2 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

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