Importance of Chlorhexidine in Maintaining Periodontal Health

Abstract

Plaque is responsible for periodontal diseases. In order to prevent occurrence and progression of periodontal disease, removal of plaque becomes important. Mechanical tooth cleaning aids such as toothbrushes, dental floss, interdental brushes are used for removal of plaque. However, in some cases, chemical agents are used as an adjunct to mechanical methods to facilitate plaque control and prevent gingivitis. Chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash is the most commonly used and is considered as gold standard chemical agent. In this review, mechanism of action and other properties of CHX are discussed.