Chlorhexidine is an ingredient which is commonly found in oral health products. Unfortunately, it is associated with tooth discoloration. But it is apparent that some beverages are worse than others for tooth discoloration during chlorhexidine treatment. Now, a research team has examined a range of beverages, with the aim of analyzing their impact on tooth discoloration when using chlorhexidine.
Chlorhexidine is the name of an ingredient which is commonly used in oral health products – with it mainly found in mouth rinses. For many decades, chlorhexidine has been used to improve oral health and protect teeth from potential damage.
However, one of the unfortunate side effects of chlorhexidine treatment is that tooth discoloration commonly takes place. This unwanted side effect puts many people off using any chlorhexidine-containing product.
But now, a research team has looked to see the impact that different beverages have on tooth discoloration during chlorhexidine treatment [1]. The findings from this study can be passed on by dentists to their patients – which should ease concerns over chlorhexidine.
What is Chlorhexidine?
Chlorhexidine is an antimicrobial agent which has an excellent effect on fungi and some viruses. Therefore, it works to reduce bacteria levels in the mouth.
However, as mentioned, chlorhexidine is linked with tooth discoloration [2]. This is due to a biochemical process in the mouth. This process means that when chlorhexidine is used, the positive charge of chlorhexidine sticks to negatively charged mouth surfaces, like saliva and enamel – and remains there for a long time frame [3].
Tooth discoloration is problematic for many reasons. It typically affects self-esteem and weakens enamel, which can cause many long-term problems.
Certain drinks can worsen the impact of tooth discoloration during chlorhexidine treatment. Therefore, looking at this subject area is appealing for researchers.
The Research
The research was carried out by a team of researchers at the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft in Germany, Europe. Their findings were published by the European Journal of Dentistry [1].
In order to make valid conclusions, the research team selected 11 beverages to use for their study. These beverages had a range of different pH levels (levels of acid) and different coloring [1].
Next, the different 11 beverages were tested on a mouth model that was produced by the researchers. The mouth featured dental crowns. Then, there was a cycle that the mouth went through – starting with the mouth coming into contact with artificial saliva, then chlorhexidine mouthwash, and finally the beverage [1].
This process was repeated 28 times, which simulated the use of chlorhexidine over a 14-day period, which is the standard length of time that a chlorhexidine mouthwash is used for [1]. Again, to try and replicate real life as closely as possible, daily teeth cleaning was conducted.
At the end of the 14-day period, the researchers analyzed the results. Color readings of the teeth had been taken regularly, while photos were also used. Final photos and readings were taken after the 14-day period [1].
The researchers found that beverages with a high dye molecule content caused persistence teeth staining. For example, tea, coffee and red wine caused the worst discoloration [1]. Diet coke unsurprisingly completed the top four.
Water, diet lemonade and white wine were the drinks which caused the least discoloration. Ginger and lemon infusion, and lager, were placed in the middle [1].
However, the researchers found that when adding milk to black tea and coffee, discoloration lessened [1]. These were the final 2 of the 11 beverages. This suggests that adding milk to beverages can have a positive effect when taking chlorhexidine.
Summary
These findings are useful for several reasons. They can help dentists to guide their patients on ways of avoiding tooth discoloration. A key finding was that adding milk to hot drinks like tea or coffee can make a big difference. But the findings also show the potential damage that some beverages can do.
As discussed, adding milk to dilute some drinks can be useful. When this isn’t possible, diluting with water can be effective. Brushing teeth and flossing are also vital.
Moreover, the authors also suggested that to lessen the risk of tooth discoloration, those using chlorhexidine should try to leave as much time as possible between using a chlorhexidine product and eating or drinking [1].
When using a chlorhexidine-containing oral product, it is important to exert caution with food and beverage consumption. By being careful, avoiding tooth discoloration is possible.
Thinking points…
[1] This article has looked at the topic of stained or discolored teeth. Unfortunately, this is quite common, and difficult to reverse. However, teeth whitening can be a solution. For example, here at Savanna Dental, we offer both in-office whitening and take-home whitening kits, which can be highly-effective. To find out more about us, drop in to our clinic, or visit our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca!
[2] The research also touched on the problems that some beverages cause our teeth. These are popular drinks which many of us consume regularly. However, this can cause problems, which makes attending regular dental appointments very important. These appointments can ensure that your teeth remain strong, and do not require any treatment. We recommend booking a check-up now!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that provide its patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary dental clinic at least twice per year for a regular dental check-up. At these check-ups, we provide a comprehensive review of a patient’s oral health. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For example, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To strengthen your oral health, we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing regularly.
Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, teeth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
Moreover, the fees of our treatments at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This ensures transparent and fair pricing, with no hidden costs.
We hope to see you soon at our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
[1] Sarembe, S., Kiewsow, A., Pratten, J., & Webster, C. (2022). The Impact on Dental Staining Caused by Beverages in Combination with Chlorhexidine Digluconate. European Journal of Dentistry. 16 (4): p911-918. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0041-1742123.
[2] Batistin, F., Antoniazzi, R. P., & Rosing, C. K. (2010). Staining and calculus formation after 0.12% chlorhexidine rinses in plaque-free and plaque covered surfaces: a randomized trial. Journal of Applied Oral Science. 18 (5): p515-521. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1590%2FS1678-77572010000500015.
[3] Fraunhofer Gesellschaft. (2024). Just add milk: Choosing beverages wisely during chlorhexidine treatment. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-01-beverages-wisely-chlorhexidine-treatment.html. Last accessed: 12th January 2024
