Chlorhexidine oral rinse is a prescription-strength antimicrobial mouthwash used to treat gingivitis, a gum disease caused by plaque buildup that leads to redness, swelling, and bleeding of the gums. It works by killing or suppressing the growth of bacteria in the mouth, helping to reduce inflammation and support healing of gum tissues.
In addition to its use in treating active gingivitis, chlorhexidine is sometimes prescribed to prevent plaque and tartar buildup after dental procedures or surgery, help manage mucositis (painful mouth sores) in patients with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy, and support oral hygiene in people who are unable to brush effectively due to illness or injury.
How To Use:
Typical dose is 15 mL (about 1 tablespoon), twice daily after brushing your teeth
Swish in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit out
Do not rinse, eat, or drink immediately after use to allow full effect
Important Usage Notes:
Chlorhexidine may cause temporary staining of teeth or taste alteration
Not recommended for use longer than 2 weeks unless instructed by a dentist
Should be used in conjunction with regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits
Chlorhexidine oral rinse side effects may include the following: Toothache; upper respiratory tract infection; gingival hyperplasia, aphthous stomatitis, staining of oral surfaces (most stain can be removed from most tooth surfaces by dental cleanings).
This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only a healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for you. TelyRx does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a limited summary of general information about the medicine’s uses from the patient education materials and is not intended to be comprehensive. This limited summary does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and does not replace information you may receive from your healthcare provider. For a more detailed summary of information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine, please review the entire patient education information you receive with the medication.