Mucosal Ulceration and Inflammation (Simple Gingivitis) (Antimicrobial)
TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
What's new / Latest updates
27/09/24
- amended saline mouthwash to 'sodium chloride (saline) mouthwash.
- added 'See Drug Prescribing in Dentistry section on ulceration and inflammation from SDCEP'.
- amended simple saline mouthwash to 'simple salt mouthwash'.
Mucosal ulceration and inflammation (simple gingivitis)
Temporary pain and swelling relief can be attained with sodium chloride (saline) mouthwash.
Use antiseptic mouthwash if more severe and pain limits oral hygiene to treat or prevent secondary infection.
The primary cause for mucosal ulceration or inflammation (aphthous ulcers, oral lichen planus, herpes simplex infection, oral cancer) needs to be evaluated and treated.
See Drug Prescribing in Dentistry section on ulceration and inflammation from SDCEP.
Drug details
Simple salt mouthwash ½ tsp salt dissolved in glass warm water.
Always spit out after use.
Use until lesions resolve or less pain allows oral hygiene.
Chlorhexidine 0·12-0·2% (do not use within 30 mins of toothpaste). Rinse mouth with 10ml diluted with 10ml water for 1 minute twice daily.
Always spit out after use.
Use until lesions resolve or less pain allows oral hygiene.
Hydrogen peroxide 6% (spit out after use). Rinse mouth with 15ml diluted in ½ glass warm water for 2 to 3 mins twice to three times daily.
Always spit out after use.
Use until lesions resolve or less pain allows oral hygiene.