CHLORHEXIDINE ANTIBACTERIAL MOUTHWASH: PROS AND CONS

Chlorhexidine Mouthwash: Pros and Cons

  • What Is Chlorhexidine Mouthwash?
  • Chlorhexidine Side Effects
  • Antibacterial Mouthwash Does Not Replace Brushing and Flossing

What Is Chlorhexidine Mouthwash?

If you're being treated for gum disease or having certain dental procedures performed, your dental professional may prescribe a prescription rinse with antibacterial properties called a chlorhexidine antibacterial mouthwash. This rinse helps to control and kill the bacteria in your mouth that cause  gum disease.

On the positive side, chlorhexidine has powerful antibacterial properties, and can be especially helpful in maintaining a healthy mouth after a teeth deep-cleaning procedure such as tooth scaling and root planing.

Chlorhexidine Side Effects

However, chlorhexidine mouthwash can cause brown stains on teeth, because chlorhexidine has been shown to bind to both hard and soft tissues. So if your dental professional prescribes a chlorhexidine wash for a short time while you're recovering from  gum disease treatment, try not to drink too much coffee, tea, red wine, or consume any foods that may be likely stain your teeth. Also, chlorhexidine mouthwashes or antibacterial rinses, may not be the best choice if you have tooth crowns or caps made of composite or glass ionomer, as these materials may stain.

Popular For Healthy Gums

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Antibacterial Mouthwash Does Not Replace Brushing and Flossing

In general, it's not necessary to make a chlorhexidine mouthwash a long-term part of your oral care routine, and even a prescription antibacterial mouthwash does not replace tooth brushing and flossing. Once your gum disease is under control, following a regular program of dental hygiene that includes  twice-daily tooth brushingdaily flossing and regular visits to your dental professional should help to prevent further problems with gum disease.

Sources:

https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/mouthrinse#:~:text=Antimicrobials%20in%20mouthwash%20formulations%20include,ketone%2C%20terpene%2C%20and%20ionone.
https://www.dentalplans.com/dental-information/dental-concerns/bacteria-in-your-mouth

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