Recommended Dose of Chlorhexidine (Peridex) Rinse for Dental Abscess
For a dental abscess, the recommended dose of Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate) oral rinse is 15 mL (½ fluid ounce) of undiluted solution used twice daily for 30 seconds, morning and evening after toothbrushing. 1
Administration Protocol
- Use the standard 0.12% concentration of chlorhexidine gluconate
- Rinse for 30 seconds with 15 mL of solution
- Use twice daily (morning and evening) after toothbrushing
- Patient should expectorate (spit out) the solution after rinsing
- Do not rinse with water, use other mouthwashes, brush teeth, or eat immediately after using chlorhexidine 1
Important Considerations for Dental Abscess Management
Primary Treatment
Chlorhexidine rinse should be considered as an adjunctive therapy, not the primary treatment for dental abscess. The cornerstone of treatment for dental abscess is:
- Surgical drainage of the abscess 2
- Appropriate antibiotic therapy when indicated (for spreading infection or systemic involvement) 2, 3
Duration of Treatment
- Continue chlorhexidine rinse until resolution of the infection and as directed by your dental provider
- Patients using chlorhexidine should be reevaluated at intervals no longer than six months 1
Additional Measures for Dental Abscess
- Antiseptic oral rinse twice daily to reduce bacterial colonization of the mucosa 4
- Consider diluting 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash by up to 50% to reduce soreness that can accompany treatment 4
- Regular oral and lip swabs should be taken if bacterial or candidal secondary infection is suspected 4
Potential Side Effects
- Staining of teeth, tongue, and restorations
- Altered taste sensation
- Increased calculus formation
- Occasional mucosal irritation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or any components of the formulation
- Not intended for ingestion
Clinical Evidence
Chlorhexidine has demonstrated efficacy as an antimicrobial agent against oral pathogens, particularly Streptococcus mutans 5. It provides a broad-spectrum antibacterial effect with substantivity (prolonged activity) in the oral cavity 6.
While chlorhexidine is effective as an adjunctive treatment, it's important to note that dental abscesses primarily require surgical intervention (drainage) as the first-line treatment 7. Chlorhexidine rinse can help reduce the bacterial load in the oral cavity but cannot replace proper surgical and antibiotic management when indicated.