Functional Chewing Gum in Reduction of Gingival Inflammation

The aim of this prospective randomized 3-month double-blinded single center study is to determine whether a chewing gum device with food additive chitosan, will aid in reducing gingival inflammation by supplementing traditional tooth brushing and flossing measures. Patients with mild to moderate gingivitis will be identified and enrolled in this investigation. All enrolled subjects will receive baseline oral hygiene brushing instructions and a baseline clinical examination of the gingiva. The test group will utilize the test chewing gum three times a day for a minimum 20-30 minutes duration; the control group will receive a placebo gum and use it in a similar manner. We will examine whether daily use of a functional chewing gum enhances improvements to brushing and flossing.