The latest ADA-EBD critical summary looks at a  2012 systematic review by Van Strydonck et al which looked at the effectiveness of Chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthrinse against plaque growth, gingival inflammation as well as the degree of staining.  We have blogged about this review earlier (Dental Elf – 21^st Sept 2012)

As this new  appraisal highlights, while the review shows that there is evidence for both anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis effects of a CHX mouthrinses . The studies included show considerable heterogeneity  and the authors rated just under a third of the included studies ( 9 out of 30) as having a low risk of bias.  While the majority of studies used a CHX concentration of 0.12% the included studies used concentrations ranging from 0.05-0.2%  so this is still some uncertainty regarding the most effective regimen.

Another recent review has looked at brushing with chlorhexidine-containing dentifrice for the control of plaque and gingivitis (Dental Elf – 2^nd Sept 2013) although the evidence was not conclusive.

Links

ADA-EBD Critical Summary – Chlorhexidine reduces plaque and inflammation but causes staining.

Van Strydonck DA, Slot DE, Van der Velden U, Van der Weijden F. Effect of a chlorhexidine mouthrinse on plaque, gingival inflammation and staining in gingivitis patients: a systematic review. J Clin Periodontol. 2012 Nov;39(11):1042-55. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-051X.2012.01883.x. Epub 2012 Sep 7. Review. PubMed PMID: 22957711.

Dental Elf – 21^st Sept 2012 – Review suggests good reductions in plaque levels and gingivitis with chlorhexidine mouthwash in addition to oral hygiene

Dental Elf – 2^nd Sept 2013 – Review suggests that brushing with a chlorhexidine-containing dentifrice may help control plaque and gingivitis