Do your gums bleed when you brush your teeth? Or are your gums red and swollen? These could be early signs of gum disease. If you see a doctor in this situation, he or she may prescribe a special mouthwash. One such medication is Chlorhexidine. Today, we'll talk about what Chlorhexidine is, how to use it, and what you need to be careful about.
What is Chlorhexidine?
Simply put, Chlorhexidine is not like your regular mouthwash you buy at the store. It is a medicated mouthwash prescribed by a doctor . Its main function is to treat a condition called gingivitis , which is a gum disease.
Gingivitis is a condition in which the gums become infected, swollen, red, and bleed due to bacteria in our mouth. Chlorhexidine kills or stops the growth of these bacteria . This will help reduce the swelling and bleeding in the gums. It can also be used for other dental conditions as directed by your doctor.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Before you start using chlorhexidine, it is absolutely important to inform your doctor about some of your health conditions.
- Tell your doctor if you have fillings , dentures , or other dental appliances with rough surfaces on your front teeth.
- If you have any other existing gum or dental conditions .
- Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to chlorhexidine or any other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives .
- It is very important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding .
Based on this information, your doctor will make the right decision about whether or not this medication is right for you and how to use it.
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this medicine, it is very important to use it correctly. It is not good to use it at will. Follow the steps below.
| Steps | What to do |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Teeth cleaning | First, brush your teeth well and use floss to clean between your teeth. |
| Step 2: Rinse your mouth. | After brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water until all the toothpaste is removed. |
| Step 3: Measuring the size | The cap of the medicine bottle can usually be used as a measuring cup. Measure out the amount prescribed by the doctor (usually 15ml). |
| Step 4: Swishing | Put the measured amount of medicine into your mouth and swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds , making sure to get all the way around. |
| Step 5: Discard | Do not swallow this medicine for any reason. Throw it away completely after 30 seconds. |
| Step 6: After that | After using it, avoid eating or drinking anything for at least a few hours . Doing so may reduce the effectiveness of the medicine. |
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
Things to be careful about when using
- Dental check-ups: It is very important to see a dentist at least once every 6 months while using this medicine to have your teeth cleaned and your gums checked.
- Bitter taste: After use, a slight bitter taste may remain in the mouth. This is normal. Do not rinse your mouth with water again to get rid of the taste. Doing so will make the medicine less effective.
- Taste changes: Some people may experience a slight change in the way they taste food during the initial period of use. This usually lasts for about 4 hours. This condition gradually decreases with continued use. Once the medicine is stopped, the sense of taste fully returns to normal.
- Staining of teeth: This medication may cause brown stains on teeth, dentures, or fillings. It may also increase the build-up of tartar on the teeth. Brushing and flossing daily with a good tartar control toothpaste can help reduce this.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Chlorhexidine can cause minor side effects. However, if you experience any symptoms, you should inform your doctor immediately.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Mouth problems | Pain, burning, or mouth sores where the medicine is used. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Change in taste | Changes in the taste and perception of food. |
| Tooth discoloration | Staining of teeth or fillings. |
| Dry mouth | Feeling of dryness in the mouth due to decreased salivation. |
What to do in an emergency?
If the medicine is taken in excess (Overdosage)
If you think you have taken more of this medicine than you should, or if you have accidentally swallowed it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
If a small child drinks from the hand
Do not leave this medicine within reach of children . If a child accidentally drinks this, it is an emergency. Seek medical advice immediately. This may cause nausea, vomiting, and signs of drunkenness in children. Therefore, take the child to a hospital immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Chlorhexidine is not a regular mouthwash, but a medication prescribed by a doctor. It is also given for conditions such as gum disease.
- This should always be used after brushing your teeth and rinsing your mouth thoroughly.
- Never swallow this after rinsing your mouth.
- Avoid eating or drinking for a few hours after use.
- Staining of teeth is normal, and can be controlled by brushing and flossing properly.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, tell your doctor immediately or go to a hospital.
- If you have any further questions about this medicine, never hesitate to ask your doctor.
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