Antimicrobials -2
Chlorhexidine gluconate (Peridex™, PerioGard ™) is a broad spectrum antibacterial oral rinse that demonstrates both bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. Chlorhexidine binds to the bacterial cell wall, and at low concentrations, alters cellular osmotic equilibrium which results in leakage (bacteriostasis), and at high concentrations, results in cell death. Chlorhexidine binds to tooth structure, oral mucosa and salivary proteins as well, and exhibits a high degree of substantivity, enabling a slow release of the agent over time. Despite its potential for increasing supragingival calculus formation, altering taste perception and staining, chlorhexidine is an excellent antimicrobial agent for use in xerostomic patients. Chlorhexidine rinses are the only prescription mouthwashes with FDA approval for efficacy in reducing plaque microorganisms and gingivitis.15, 41, 42, 43
