Chlorhexidine Gluconate Solution Research Articles

Streptococci isolated from plaque in subjects rinsing with chlorhexidine

Twenty strains of streptococci were isolated from dental plaque obtained from 4 students rinsing twice a day with a 0.2 per cent solution of chlorhexidine gluconate. The predominant streptococci in all plaque samples had characteristics similar to Streptococcus sanguis.

Anaerobic gliding bacteria isolated from the oral cavity.

During a 22 day period without oral hygiene 11 dental students rinsed their mouths, twice a day, with a 0.2 per cent aqueous solution of chlorhexidine gluconate. The anaerobic bacterial flora of the gingiva was studied and between days 5 and 10 the proportion of gram negative rods increased temporarily and many exhibited a gliding movement of translation. Nineteen strains of gliding bacteria were isolated and compared with regard to their colonial and cellular morphology and biochemical characteristics. On the basis of these criteria the strains of gliding bacteria are provisionally classified as Fusobacterium girans. Throughout the experimental period none of the subjects accumulated plaque or developed gingivitis.

Effect of local applications of chlorhexidine on the oral mucosa of the hamster.

The effects of local applications of a 2.2 mM (0.2 per cent) chlorhexidine gluconate solution on the oral mucous membranes have been evaluated by vital microscopy and histological and enzyme histochemical methods. Chlorhexidine gluconate applied onto intact or dekeratinized hamster cheek‐pouch did not induce microvascular disturbances in the underlying connective tissue. On a defective cheek‐pouch surface, however, the test solution caused hemolysis, intravascular granulo‐cytosis and thrombus formation. These observations indicate that chlorhexidine gluconate does not penetrate the undamaged oral epithelium. Daily application of 2.2 mM chlorhexidine gluconate on the palatal or sublingual mucosa did not induce reactions in the underlying connective tissue. The application of the test solution onto the oral epithelium, however, induced an increase in non‐enzymic formazan deposition in the surface layers. These staining reactions, which developed rapidly, did not appear to increase during prolonged administration.

The effect of chlorhexidine mouthrinses on the human oral flora.

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of chlorhexidine mouthrinses on the oral flora. Four students rinsed, twice daily, with 10 ml of a 0.2 per cent solution of chlorhexidine gluconate, and four students served as controls on a no oral hygiene programme. The number of bacteria in saliva was estimated by a cultural technique and impression preparations were used for the study of the bacteria on the gingiva and tooth surface. The controls showed a 300 per cent increase in bacterial counts during the experiment. In the chlorhexidine group the number of bacteria per ml saliva was reduced by 85 per cent, after 24 hours, reaching a 95 per cent reduction on day 5. An 85–90 per cent reduction was maintained throughout the experimental period. Impression preparations of the gingival area in the controls showed a heavier accummulation of bacteria than in the chlorhexidine group. In addition an increasing bacterial colonization of the tooth surfaces occurred in the controls throughout the experiment, but was never observed in the chlorhexidine group. Although the number of bacteria in saliva was markedly reduced, large numbers still persisted. It, therefore, appears unlikely that the inhibition of plaque formation is primarily the result of a reduction of the salivary flora.

The effect of mouthrinses and topical application of chlorhexidine on the development of dental plaque and gingivitis in man

Twenty‐four male dental students with healthy gingivae and clean teeth ceased all oral hygiene procedures. (A) Four subjects rinsed, twice daily, with a 0.2 per cent solution of chlorhexidine gluconate; (B) eight students rinsed, once daily, with the same solution; (C) six students did not rinse and formed the control group and (D) six students received one daily application of a 2 per cent solution of chlorhexidine gluconate. The study confirmed previous observations (Löe and Rindom Schiött 1969, 1970) that two daily mouth rinses with a 0.2 per cent solution of chlorhexidine effectively prevent plaque formation. One daily rinse did not inhibit plaque formation in all areas of the dentition. One daily topical application of a 2 per cent solution of chlorhexidine gluconate prevented plaque formation completely. Upon discontinuation of the chlorhexidine treatment plaque formed at normal rates, suggesting that there is no appreciable effect beyond a 24 hour period. It is concluded that complete inhibition of plaque and prevention of gingivitis may be achieved by daily application of chlorhexidine, provided the agent is administered in such a way that it reaches all tooth surfaces.