[The effect of zinc chloride mouthwashes on caries-inducing plaque streptococci. 2. In vivo studies of the antibacterial effect of zinc chloride on the total streptococcal flora of the dental plaque].

During a 14-day test period a 0.2% and a 0.4% zinc chloride solution have been examined concerning their antibacterial efficiency on the total streptococcus flora of dental plaque under conditions conforming to standard by means of the Mylar foil technique. The results of the microbiological examination show a significant decrease of colony developing units of the plaque streptococci by a 7-day mouth rinsing with zinc chloride solution. The lesser antimicrobial effect of the zinc chloride solution compared with a 0.2% chlorhexidine solution is not proved statistically in the test period. A 0.2% or 0.4% zinc chloride solution could complete the mechanical dental and oral hygiene in an effective way.