Abstract

Prevalence of oral diseases is high. Dental plaque has been recognised as the primary cause of gingivitis and periodontitis. To treat as wll as to prevent these diseases through minimising the number of pathogenic microorganisms is of utmost importance. Antiseptic mouthrinses have been widely used to prevent dental caries and inflammatory diseases of the periodontal tissues, reducing the number of cariesogenic and periodontal  pathogens. As contact surfaces between the teeth and the periodontal crevice are not always accessible to routine oral hygiene procedures, antiseptic mouthrinses are of great benefit. Mouthrinses containing essential oils, chlorhexidine and alcohol are effective also against bacteria present in dental biofilm. Multiple studies confirm that it is safe to use essential oil mouthrinses for longer periods.