Effect of chlorhexidine on acidogenicity of dental plaque in vivo.

In order to evaluate the effect of chlorhexidine on the acidogenicity of dental plaque, pH changes in plaque were measured in situ after sucrose applications. The results showed that a 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthrinse inhibited acid production for a period of 24 h, whereas a 0.05% chlorhexidine rinse showed an inhibitory effect for 4 h. It is suggested that the mechanism involved may be related to the retention of chlorhexidine in the mouth and in plaque providing a bacteriostatic milieu which may be of importance in the observed long-term effect.