Antimicrobials - 4
Other agents available as mouth rinses exhibit antibacterial properties, but do not possess good substance. Fluoride, especially stannous fluoride, is thought to be antibacterial in addition to its cardioprotective and desensitizing effects. Oxygenating agents damage bacteria by altering cell membrane permeability. Sanguinarine, an extract derived from the plant root Sanguinaria canadensis, decreases bacterial cell enzyme activity, and is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria.15 Viadent® k, the original Sanguinarine mouth rinse, has been reformulated, and now contains cetylpyridinium chloride as its active ingredient.
Most mouth rinses contain alcohol, a chemical known to damage bacteria by denaturing the cell wall. However, the alcohol found in mouth rinses most often serves as the carrier for the active ingredient. Caution must be used when recommending products that contain alcohol, as alcohol may further irritate a xerostomic client's dry oral mucosa. 15 Alcohol-containing mouth rinses are contraindicated for use in recovering alcoholics and in young children, who may accidentally ingest these products. Children who ingest more than four ounces of alcohol-containing mouth rinses may experience alcohol intoxication. 15
