CHLORHEXIDINE MOUTHWASH

Chlorhexidine has been proven to be the most effective chemical agent for the reduction of plaque and gingivitis.

1. Reduces pellicle formation.

2. Alters bacterial cell wall causing lysis.

3. has High degree of substantivity i.e., it adheres to tissues and remain for a long time, increasing its effectiveness in fighting bacteria.

5. Non specific antimicrobial activity of chlorhexidine has not been associated with development of resistance of pathological oral bacteria.

6. Due to its fungicidal action, chlorhexidine may benefit HIV infected people because of their propensity to contract oral candidiasis.



As a mouth rinse to control plaque and gingivitis, it is recommended to be used twice daily.
It should not be used within 30 to 60 minutes of a tooth paste since most tooth pastes contain sodium laural sulphate, which can deactivate chlorhexidine.
Also, stannous fluoride products should always be used after chlorhexidine since stannous ion and chlorhexidine both compete for and occupy the same site on the tooth.

Some side effects of chlorhexidine include staining of teeth reversible desquamation in young children, alteration of taste.