Evaluation of clinical effificacy of Terminalia chebula inplaque-induced gingivitis: A randomized control trial

Introduction: Plaque control is fundamental to the prevention and management of periodontal diseases. However, most of the individuals do not practice plaque removal in an adequate manner. Hence, there is a need for an antiplaque agent that can be used on a daily basis without the side effects of antibacterial chemicals. The aim of the study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Terminalia chebula in patients with chronic gingivitis. Materials and Methods: Eighty patients, 18-40 years of age, diagnosed with chronic generalized gingivitis were selected and randomly divided into two groups. Group I underwent oral prophylaxis alone whereas Group II underwent oral prophylaxis and advised to do gingival massage by T. chebula powder. Clinical evaluation was done using plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and gingival bleeding index (GBI) at baseline and after 1 month. Results: Gingival massage with T. chebula powder showed a significant reduction in PI, GI, and GBI scores from baseline to 1 month. Conclusion: T. chebula powder is a useful herbal formulation for plaque control in patients with chronic gingivitis.