What role does chlorhexidine play in endodontic therapy and oral care, and what are its limitations?

• A. Antimicrobial adjunct to reduce bacterial load; helps disinfection; lacks tissue-dissolving properties, may stain, and should not replace mechanical cleaning
• B. It oxidizes tissue
• C. It dissolves teeth
• D. It cures caries

Answer: (A)

Chlorhexidine in endodontic therapy and oral care acts as an antimicrobial adjunct that helps reduce the bacterial load and support disinfection. It has good substantivity, meaning it remains active on dentin and oral tissues for an extended period after application, which helps control residual bacteria between and after procedures.

However, it has important limits. It does not dissolve tissue, so it cannot replace mechanical cleaning or tissue-dissolving irrigants like sodium hypochlorite. It should be used to augment disinfection rather than as the sole cleanup agent. Prolonged use or high concentrations can cause staining of teeth and restorations, and some patients may notice taste alterations. It should not be mixed with sodium hypochlorite, as the combination can form precipitates that threaten disinfection.

In summary, its role is to contribute antimicrobial action and prolonged effect, while its limitations mean it cannot substitute for mechanical debridement or tissue dissolution, and staining and compatibility considerations must be kept in mind.