CLINICAL IMPACT OF SODIUM FLUORIDE, GUAVA LEAVES EXTRACT, AND POMEGRANATE PEEL EXTRACT MOUTHRINSES ON DENTAL PLAQUE IN CHILDREN: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL STUDY

Abstract Background: The oral environment facilitates microbial growth and biofilm development, which plays a key role in dental plaque accumulation and the deterioration of gingival health. Aim: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of three distinct mouthrinses—sodium fluoride, guava leaf extract, and pomegranate peel extract—on dental plaque accumulation and health of gingiva in children. Methods: a random clinical study involving 40 healthy children aged 8 to 12 years. Participants were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 10 per group): one control group using distilled water, and three intervention groups receiving sodium fluoride, guava leaf extract, or pomegranate peel extract mouthrinses. Gingival and plaque indices were measured at baseline (Day 0), and subsequently on Days 7 and 14. Results: showed a significant difference between fluoride, guava, and pomegranate mouthrinse groups) compared to the water group in gingival and plaque indices. Conclusion Mouthrinses containing sodium fluoride, guava leaf extract, and pomegranate peel extract significantly improved gingival health and reduced plaque accumulation over a 14-day period. These natural and conventional agents may serve as effective adjuncts in pediatric oral hygiene.