A Review of Efficacy of Various Modes of Chlorhexidine Delivery

There has been an intensive search for many years for chemical agents that could supplement or even supplant patient-dependent mechanical plaque control and thus reduce or prevent oral diseases. The amount of literature relating to the use of chlorhexidine in plaque control is immense; the proof of the agent's efficacy regarding such a role is beyond dispute. After three decades of use by the dental profession, chlorhexidine is still recognized as the gold standard against which other antiplaque and antigingivitis agents are measured. Chlorhexidine appears to be mainly useful in situations in which oral hygiene is difficult, compromised or impossible. Most research has been concerned with chlorhexidine mouthrinse; however, similar applications could involve chlorhexidine spray, gel, toothpaste and chewing gum. This article reviews the literature on the indications and various modes of delivery of chlorhexidine and provides guidelines on its usage.