Peridex can help reduce bacteria and gum inflammation, but it may also cause changes in the appearance or taste of your mouth. Continue good oral hygiene and attend regular dental appointments while using this medication.
Tooth, filling, and tongue staining
Peridex may cause brown or yellow staining on the teeth, tongue, dentures, crowns, bridges, or certain dental fillings. The risk of staining may increase with longer use.
Regular brushing and flossing may help limit surface buildup, but they may not completely prevent staining. Some stains cannot be removed with ordinary brushing and may require professional cleaning or polishing by a dentist or dental hygienist.
Tell your dentist if you notice noticeable staining, especially if it becomes difficult to remove or affects dental work. Do not stop using Peridex without first speaking with your dentist unless you develop signs of a serious reaction.
Changes in taste
Peridex may temporarily affect your sense of taste. The rinse itself can taste bitter, and some people notice that food or drinks taste different after using it.
You may experience:
- A bitter or metallic taste
- An unpleasant taste that remains after rinsing
- Reduced ability to taste certain foods
- A change in how salty, sweet, sour, or bitter foods taste
Taste changes are often temporary and may improve as your body adjusts or after treatment ends. Speak with your dentist if the changes are severe, do not improve, or make it difficult for you to eat or drink normally.
Allergic reactions
Before using Peridex, tell your dentist, healthcare provider, or pharmacist if you have ever had an allergic reaction to chlorhexidine or another mouth rinse.
The product may contain inactive ingredients, such as flavourings, dyes, sweeteners, preservatives, or alcohol, depending on the manufacturer. These ingredients may cause irritation or an allergic reaction in some people.
Stop using Peridex and seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, mouth, or throat
- Difficulty breathing, speaking, or swallowing
- Wheezing or tightness in the chest
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Hives or a widespread rash
A serious allergic reaction is uncommon, but it can occur even if you have used chlorhexidine before without a problem.
Plaque and tartar buildup
Peridex reduces bacteria associated with gingivitis, but it may increase the buildup of tartar, also called dental calculus, on the teeth in some people. Tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by ordinary brushing or flossing.
This does not mean the medication is making your gum disease worse. However, tartar can irritate the gums and may need to be removed during a professional dental cleaning.
Continue daily oral care
Peridex does not replace brushing, flossing, or professional dental care. Unless your dentist gives you different instructions, continue to:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss or clean between your teeth every day
- Clean dentures, retainers, or other removable dental appliances
- Attend regular dental examinations
- Schedule professional cleanings as recommended
Your dentist may adjust your brushing technique, toothpaste, or cleaning schedule to reduce staining and tartar buildup while you are using Peridex.
When to contact your dentist
Speak with your dentist if you develop persistent mouth irritation, severe taste changes, heavy staining, increased tartar, mouth sores, or worsening gum symptoms.
You should also contact your dentist if your gums continue to bleed, swell, or feel painful despite using Peridex as directed. These symptoms may mean that you need additional dental treatment or a professional cleaning.
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