What is Peridex Used For?
Peridex (chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12% oral rinse) is indicated for the treatment of gingivitis between dental visits, specifically to reduce gum redness, swelling, and bleeding associated with gingival inflammation. 1
Primary Indication
Peridex is prescribed as part of a professional dental program to treat gingivitis characterized by:
The medication is used as an adjunct to mechanical oral hygiene (toothbrushing and flossing), not as a replacement for regular dental care. 1
Clinical Effectiveness
For gingivitis reduction: In patients with mild gingival inflammation (mean Gingival Index score of 1 on a 0-3 scale), chlorhexidine mouthrinse reduces gingivitis by 0.21 points after 4-6 weeks of use, with similar effects maintained at 6 months. 2
For plaque control: Chlorhexidine produces a large reduction in dental plaque, with effects sustained through 6 months of use. 2 Multiple studies demonstrate comparable anti-plaque activity between chlorhexidine and various herbal alternatives. 3
Dosing and Administration
- Standard regimen: Fill cap to the fill line (15 mL), swish undiluted in mouth for 30 seconds, then spit out 1
- Frequency: Use after breakfast and before bedtime 1
- Timing: Rinse 30-45 minutes after brushing to avoid taste interference 3, 1
- Important: Do not rinse with water immediately after use to minimize medicinal taste and maintain effectiveness 1
Additional Clinical Applications
Beyond the FDA-approved indication, research supports chlorhexidine use for:
Dry socket prevention: Twice-daily use of 0.12% chlorhexidine for 2 weeks after surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars reduces dry socket incidence by 56%, with particular benefit in smokers. 4
Nosocomial pneumonia reduction: In patients undergoing cardiac surgery requiring prolonged intubation (>24 hours), chlorhexidine reduces pneumonia rates by 58% overall and 71% in highest-risk patients. 5
Important Warnings and Side Effects
Common adverse effects include:
- Tooth staining: Permanent discoloration occurs with use beyond 4 weeks, requiring professional removal every 6 months or more frequently 1, 2
- Increased tartar formation: Particularly in areas where calculus typically forms 1
- Taste alterations: Bitter taste and interference with food/beverage taste, which typically diminishes with continued use 1
- Oral mucosa effects: Soreness, irritation, mild desquamation, or ulceration 2
- Burning sensation: General burning or burning tongue 2
Contraindications:
- Hypersensitivity to chlorhexidine or its components 1
- Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) - not tested in this population 1
Seek immediate medical attention if: Allergic symptoms develop including skin rash, itching, generalized swelling, breathing difficulties, lightheadedness, rapid heart rate, upset stomach, or diarrhea. 1
Clinical Pearls
- Emphasize brushing and flossing in areas that begin to discolor to minimize staining 1
- The medication should not be swallowed 1
- Professional dental cleaning is essential every 6 months minimum to remove stain and tartar 1
- Peridex has not been tested in patients with coexisting gingivitis and periodontitis; use caution in this population 1
- Store at room temperature (68°F to 77°F) 1