CHLORHEXIDINE IN CONTEMPORARY DENTISTRY: A COMPREHENSIVE NARRATIVE REVIEW

Hussein Bassim  Al-Anssari; Jehan Yawez  Al-Demirchi; Yasser Abdulrahman  Yaseen

doi:10.61796/jhsm.v1i4.29

Authors

Hussein Bassim Al-Anssari Department of Dentistry Al-Hadi University Collage, Iraq
Jehan Yawez Al-Demirchi Ibn Sina University of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Iraq
Yasser Abdulrahman Yaseen Department of Dentistry Al-Hadi University Collage, Iraq

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61796/jhsm.v1i4.29

Keywords:

Chlorhexidine, Dental plaque, Gingivitis, Periodontitis, Oral surgery, Dental implants, Endodontics

Abstract

Objective: This narrative review covers CHX’s pharmacology, clinical applications across various dental fields, and associated adverse effects. Method: Literature review highlighted systematic reviews and clinical trials showing that CHX mouthrinse effectively reduces dental plaque and inflammation post-surgery. Results: Chlorhexidine (CHX) is a bisbiguanide antiseptic known for its broad antimicrobial action and prolonged activity on oral surfaces, primarily used in dentistry when mechanical plaque removal is limited. In endodontics, while CHX exhibits useful antimicrobial properties, it cannot dissolve organic tissue and has limitations such as staining, altered taste, and mucosal irritation. Novelty: Hence, CHX should be prescribed judiciously, emphasizing mechanical plaque control as the primary approach, with CHX as a supportive adjunct.

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