Effectiveness of Benzydamine HC1 in the Treatment of Periodontal Post-Surgical Patients

Abstract

The aim of this clinical research project was to determine the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, healing and plaque inhibiting effect of benzydamine HCl (TANTUM) oral rinse in a double blind crossover study of periodontal post-surgical patients. For each patient a modified Widman flap procedure with osteoplasty was required on contralateral sides of the mouth for similar periodontal problems. Thirteen patients had a total of 20 pairs of surgical procedures performed. Prior to surgery, a complete examination, scaling, root planing and oral hygiene were given. Beginning four hours after commencement of the surgery on one side of the mouth, the patients rinsed with either benzydamine HCl or a placebo. The patients evaluated pain before rinsing and thirty minutes later. They rinsed every four hours except during sleeping for a 7-day period following surgery. A Plaque Index and an Inflammmatory Index were ascertained at days 0, 1, 3 and 7. A Healing Index was determined at days 1, 3 and 7. For the second surgical procedure the assessments were carried out in the same manner and the same post-operative regimen followed. However, if the patients rinsed with benzydamine HCl after the first surgery, they now used a placebo and vice-versa. The results showed significant differences for plaque index, gingival index, healing index and pain reduction when Tantum was compared to the placebo. Tantum was better on all parameters measured.