Chlorhexidine

Chlorhexidine is an antiseptic used to lower plaque bacteria and treat gum inflammation, often called gingivitis. Results vary. A prescription rinse or dental gel may be used alongside brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings. A licensed dentist in your state decides whether it fits your dental needs.

Use chlorhexidine exactly as your dentist and pharmacy label direct. For a rinse, measure the prescribed amount, swish for the stated time, and spit it out. Do not swallow it. Gel instructions differ from rinse instructions. Ask your dentist or pharmacist if any part of the directions is unclear.

Follow your chlorhexidine label and your dentist's advice about brushing. Some toothpaste ingredients can interfere with chlorhexidine when used close together. Your dentist or pharmacist can explain whether to separate them. Keep brushing and flossing as directed, but avoid rinsing your mouth immediately after using a chlorhexidine rinse.

Yes. Chlorhexidine can cause brown staining on teeth, the tongue, and some dental work. It can also increase tartar buildup. Professional cleaning may remove many surface stains, but results vary. Tell your dentist about fillings, crowns, dentures, or cosmetic dental work before starting treatment, and keep planned dental cleanings.

Yes. Chlorhexidine can change your sense of taste or leave an unusual taste in your mouth. These changes are often temporary, but results vary. Contact your dentist if the change is severe, affects eating or drinking, or continues after treatment. Do not use extra rinse to cover the taste.

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.

Ask your dentist or pharmacist before combining chlorhexidine with another mouthwash, dental gel, or whitening treatment. Some products can interfere with its action or add irritation. Share all medicines, supplements, and oral care products you use. Do not mix chlorhexidine with other products or change prescribed medicines on your own.

Anyone considering prescription chlorhexidine needs a dental review. Do not use it if you have a known allergy to chlorhexidine or an ingredient in the product. Tell your dentist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, treating a child, or unable to reliably spit out a rinse. Product ingredients and age limits differ.

Use chlorhexidine for the length of time your dentist prescribes. Do not extend treatment or restart leftover medicine on your own. Gum symptoms may improve during treatment, but results vary. Contact your dentist if symptoms worsen, do not improve as expected, or return after the course ends.

Yes. A compounded chlorhexidine medication is prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and is not FDA-approved. Its strength, ingredients, or form may differ from a commercially available product. A licensed dentist in your state decides whether it is appropriate. Always follow the directions for the product actually dispensed.