What is the current status of antiseptic mouthwashes in the prevention & treatment of periodontal diseases?

On 16 May 2025 at #EuroPerio11, the Spanish Society of Periodontology and Osseointegration unveiled the latest evidence-based report on antiseptic mouthwashes—and it might just change the way we think about oral care.

EuroPerio is the world’s leading congress in periodontology and implant dentistry, organized by the European Federation of Periodontology. Over these 30 years, the federation has promoted evidence-based periodontal science for the benefit of professionals and patients across the world. This year, #EuroPerio11 was conducted in Vienna in May 2025.

Released as part of the society’s Principles for Oral Health educational push, the findings serve both dental professionals and the public. It lays out clear, evidence-based points on the safety and effectiveness of these widely used rinses.

Backed by insights from 14 top experts, this report dives deep into how antiseptic mouthwashes support oral hygiene, help manage periodontitis, and even aid in preventing the disease recurrence.

So what did the experts uncover?

Antiseptic agents are effective when used alongside regular mechanical plaque control—especially in both the prevention and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease.

Management of gingivitis remains a primary strategy for preventing the onset of periodontitis.

Watch this YouTube video to know more from the co-author of the report Dr Paula Matesanz, scientific coordinator for Principles for Oral Health

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwGrcFVmOa0&t=11s

At-home use of antiseptics like Chlorhexidine by patients can support the management of periodontitis in all three phases of therapy.

1. Initial phase: The antiseptics help reduce gingival inflammation when combined with supragingival biofilm control—whether delivered by patients or dental professionals. 
2. Second phase: Short-term use of adjunctive antiseptic mouthwashes may enhance clinical outcomes, contributing to further reductions in probing depth and bleeding on probing.
3. Third phase: Post-surgical use of antiseptics assists in improving wound healing and improve clinical parameters as well as patient comfort.