Medications · FAQ
What chlorhexidine side effects need medical or dental attention?
Short answer
Chlorhexidine can cause mouth irritation, staining, tartar buildup, and taste changes. Contact your dentist for persistent soreness, peeling, or swelling. Stop using it and call 911 for trouble breathing or swelling of the tongue or throat. These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction that needs emergency care.
Chlorhexidine can cause an unusual taste, tooth staining, and more tartar buildup. Some people also have mouth irritation, soreness, or peeling inside the mouth. Tell your dentist if these symptoms are painful, keep happening, or make eating and drinking difficult. Do not assume that burning means the medicine is working.
A serious allergic reaction can happen. Stop using chlorhexidine and call 911 if you have trouble breathing, feel faint, or develop swelling of the tongue or throat. Hives or swelling of the face or lips also need prompt attention. Do not try another chlorhexidine product after a suspected allergy unless a clinician says it is safe.
Chlorhexidine rinse should not be swallowed. If a child swallows it, or anyone swallows more than a small accidental amount, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Have the bottle ready so you can share its ingredients and strength. Do not make the person vomit. Call 911 if the person has trouble breathing, collapses, or cannot be awakened.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.