Chlorhexidine - antiseptic agent for oral hygiene & germ reduction

Chlorhexidine is a proven antibacterial agent for the treatment of gingivitis. Effective against plaque and germs in the short term - associated with side effects in the long term.

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Wissenswertes über "Chlorhexidine"

Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic agent that is primarily used in dental prophylaxis and therapy.

Chlorhexidine has a broad antibacterial effect against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, and in some cases also against fungi and enveloped viruses. In dentistry, chlorhexidine is considered the gold standard for reducing plaque bacteria and combating gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). It is mainly used in the form of mouthwashes, gels or sprays with concentrations between 0.06% and 0.2%.

The mode of action is based on the destruction of bacterial cell membranes, whereby chlorhexidine reduces the colonisation of gums and mucous membranes with pathogenic germs.It is used for acute gingivitis, periodontitis, after oral surgery or when mechanical dental care is difficult, e.g. due to fixed braces or motor impairments. In many cases, it is also used for temporary germ control after professional tooth cleaning or extraction.

However, use should be limited in time, as prolonged use can lead to side effects such as discolouration of the teeth, taste changes, mucous membrane irritation or disruption of the oral microbiota. For this reason, chlorhexidine is particularly suitable as a short-term supportive measure and should not be used permanently. Alternatively, natural antimicrobial agents are also increasingly being investigated - such as lactoferrin, which also has an anti-inflammatory effect without affecting the healthy oral flora too much.

Important features of chlorhexidine:

Antiseptic ingredient for the reduction of oral germs
Use in gingivitis, periodontitis, after dental procedures
use in mouthwashes, gels, sprays
Not suitable for long-term use due to discolouration and taste disturbances
Alternatives with milder effects such as lactoferrin are increasingly in focus
Literature references
- Jones, C. G. (1997). "Chlorhexidine: is it still the gold standard?" Periodontology 2000.
- Figuero, E. et al. (2013). "Effect of chlorhexidine mouthrinse on plaque and gingivitis: a systematic review." Journal of Clinical Periodontology.
- Gunsolley, J. C. (2010). "A meta-analysis of six-month studies of antiplaque and antigingivitis agents." Journal of the American Dental Association.