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Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Written By Dr. Anuj SainiReviewed By Dr. Rajeev Sharma
Last updated 10 Apr 2025 | 04:41 AM (UTC)

Chlorhexidine Gluconate Uses

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is used in the treatment of inflammation of gums, mouth infection and bad odor from mouth.

How Chlorhexidine Gluconate works

Chlorhexidine Gluconate is an antiseptic. It works by killing harmful microorganisms and cleans the affected area.

Common side effects of Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Taste change, Dryness in mouth, Loss of taste sensation
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Expert advice for Chlorhexidine Gluconate

  • Use Chlorhexidine Gluconate after meals, it may affect the taste of foods and beverages. 
  • For maximum effectiveness avoid rinsing mouth (with water or any other mouthwash), brushing teeth, eating or drinking for 30 minutes after using the Chlorhexidine Gluconate.
  • Chlorhexidine Gluconate may cause permanent discolouration of some tooth fillings. To minimize discolouration, brush and floss daily, focussing on the areas which begin to discolour.
  • Do not mix/dilute Chlorhexidine Gluconate with any other product.
  • Avoid contact with eyes and ears. If the solution comes in contact with your eyes, rinse well with water.
  • Notify your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
  • Use Chlorhexidine Gluconate after meals, it may affect the taste of foods and beverages. 
  • For maximum effectiveness avoid rinsing mouth (with water or any other mouthwash), brushing teeth, eating or drinking for 30 minutes after using the Chlorhexidine Gluconate.
  • Chlorhexidine Gluconate may cause permanent discolouration of some tooth fillings. To minimize discolouration, brush and floss daily, focussing on the areas which begin to discolour.
  • Do not mix/dilute Chlorhexidine Gluconate with any other product.
  • Avoid contact with eyes and ears. If the solution comes in contact with your eyes, rinse well with water.
  • Notify your doctor if you are or planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions for Chlorhexidine Gluconate

The duration of use of Chlorhexidine Gluconate will depend on the condition it is being prescribed for. If you are using it for gum disease (gingivitis) it may be used for a month. If being used for mouth ulcers and thrush, this mouthwash may be used till 2 days after the symptoms are relieved.
Yes, though it does not occur in everyone, Chlorhexidine Gluconate may stain your teeth and tongue. Staining is not permanent and may disappear after discontinuation of treatment. Brushing the teeth with regular toothpaste before using Chlorhexidine Gluconate can prevent staining. You should also avoid tannin-containing food and drinks such as tea and coffee.
Yes, Chlorhexidine Gluconate is effective in reducing bad breath, which persists for about 3 hours. However, the risk of staining teeth and alteration of taste should be borne in mind before you start using it. Also, use this medicine judiciously.
It should be used as required. It is generally used twice daily. Rinse the mouth thoroughly for about 1 minute with 10 ml of Chlorhexidine Gluconate mouthwash. After rinsing, expel it from your mouth.
Using toothpastes immediately after the mouthwash may interfere with the working of mouthwash properly. Use it before the mouthwash or at a different time of the day. Always rinse your mouth before using the mouthwash.