Expert Opinion on the Use of Mouthwashes in Dental Care in India

Abstract

The use of mouthwash in India is underrated and lacks an expert consensus for optimum clinical use and benefits. Ten expert dentists and one expert otolaryngologist participated in a panel discussion where insights were sought to understand the role of mouthwash in maintaining oral hygiene and preventing/treating dental diseases and their complications. Current evidence regarding the effectiveness of octenidine-based mouthwash was also explored. Consensus was formulated on the basis of expert insights and contemporary supportive evidence. Antimicrobial mouthwash was recommended as an
adjunct to brushing as it helps control plaque and reduce gingivitis, thereby maintaining oral hygiene in routine and preand post-dental procedures. The risk of alveolar osteitis and bacteremia following tooth extraction and the incidence or severity of oral mucositis in patients treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy may also be reduced with the use of mouthwash. Mouthwash use also reduces the risk of fungal infections, including denture stomatitis, and helps treat halitosis. Antimicrobials such as chlorhexidine, octenidine,cetylpyridinium chloride, probiotics or essential oils, and some antifungal and anti-inflammatory agents are recommended as active agents in mouthwash. The suggested duration of mouthwash use may be 2 weeks to 6 months depending upon the clinical condition. Octenidine-based mouthwash could be an effective alternative to other currently available mouthwash formulations. Appropriate use of mouthwash in addition to mechanical means of plaque control shall provide significant adjunctive benefits in specific clinical situations and for general oral health.
Source of Support: The project was supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Abbott Healthcare Pvt. Ltd
Competing Interest : Authors received speakers’ honoraria for participation in the expert panel discussion.