Chlorhexamed® forte

Introduction

About one in two Germans has already had at least once gingivitis or bleeding after brushing their teeth. But this does not have to be the case. Chlorhexamed® forte with the active ingredient chlorhexidine digluconate is not only used in the dental practice in over 50% of treatments, it is also frequently found in the bathroom at home. Due to its strong bactericidal effect, it can quickly counteract infections in the mouth and throat area and also, as a prophylactic application in between, it has been proven to promote dental and oral health.

Effect of Chlorhexamed® forte

The active ingredient chlorhexidine digluconate is responsible for the effect of Chlorhexamed®. It penetrates into the bacterial membrane and can change it, even destroy it in high concentrations, and is therefore bactericidal. Chlorhexamed® is particularly effective against the bacterium Streptococcus mutans, which is responsible for caries.

The antiseptic is also effective against some types of viruses, which is why it is also frequently used for inflammation of the throat and pharynx. Due to its negative charge, the molecule chlorhexidine digluconate adheres to the teeth and can thus remain in the mouth longer and be effective, while other rinsing solutions have long since disappeared from the oral cavity. The negative charge also ensures that chlorhexidine sticks to the oral mucosa but does not penetrate it and enter the bloodstream, which is why the preparation only works locally. Even if chlorhexidine is accidentally swallowed or the gel reaches the gastrointestinal tract, it is not absorbed through the intestinal mucosa, but is completely excreted.

Indications of Chlorhexamed® forte

The effect of chlorhexidine digluconate has been known for 40 years. In general it can be said that any bacterially caused inflammatory process in the mouth and throat area (also tonsillitis and sore throat) belongs to the field of application of Chlorhexamed® forte. This includes diseases such as gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, in which the gums hurt, redden and swell.

Furthermore, periodontitis, a generalized inflammation of the entire periodontium, is also an indication for the use of Chlorhexamed®. The active ingredient is particularly effective against the bacterium Streptococcus mutans, which is the bacterium that causes caries. Chlorhexidine digluconate can therefore reduce the bacterial count in the entire oral cavity, which helps to reduce the incidence of caries when brushing teeth.

However, Chlorhexamed® cannot treat or even reverse existing caries. Furthermore, the preparation is ideal for patients with limited oral hygiene capabilities, for example old or disabled patients whose ability to perform good dental care is limited. Furthermore, Chlorhexamed® has a proven positive effect on bad breath.

All surgical procedures within the oral cavity involving suturing are another indication, as the sutures are bacteria scavengers and rinsing with chlorhexidine can promote wound closure. Irrigation is also preferred before surgical procedures, as it achieves relative sterility within the oral cavity. Caution should be exercised in postoperative behaviour after tooth removal, as excessive irrigation is contraindicated in this case.