Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) is a broad – spectrum antimicrobial drug. It acts as an antiseptic and acts as a bactericidal agent against many microbe types, including bacteria, yeast, and viruses.

The goal of chlorhexidine irrigation is to flush away bacteria to decrease gingivitis development or to decrease the existing gingivitis. In patients where traditional dental plaque control is ineffective, CHX irrigation can be beneficial in killing the bacteria which causes gum disease progression. The effects of the rinse can last 8-12 hours and reduce both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.