Comparison of plaque accumulation after topical application and mouth rinsing with chlorhexidine gluconate

This study measured plaque accumulation on anterior teeth after topical or mouth rinse application of 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate. Compared with water plaque scores were highly significantly reduced. There was no significant difference in plaque scores between topical application or mouth rinsing. The importance of locally adsorbed chlorhexidine is emphasised and the relevance of an oral reservoir effect questioned.