While toothbrushing remains the primary technique recommended for mechanically removing plaque above the gumline, it often leaves interproximal plaque unaddressed. Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) is a well-known antibacterial for use in mouthwash formulas, demonstrated to successfully reduce plaque and gingivitis throughout the mouth. There is evidence, however, that the addition of zinc lactate to the formula increases its efficacy in vivo.
Stewart et al. (Mon,) studied this question.