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Chlorhexidine-based protocols for complete denture disinfection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Artur Ferronato Soto1, Maria Eduarda Broering da Silva1, Henrique Souza Dos Santos1
1Department of Dentistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianopolis, SC, Brazil.
Odontology
|June 2, 2026
Summary
Chlorhexidine effectively disinfects complete dentures, significantly reducing microbial load regardless of concentration or application method. Further research is needed to standardize protocols for optimal dental practice.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Complete denture use is common, increasing the risk of microbial colonization and infections.
- Effective disinfection protocols for complete dentures are crucial for oral health.
- Chlorhexidine is a widely used antimicrobial agent with potential for denture disinfection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and evaluate the effectiveness of chlorhexidine-based protocols for disinfecting complete dentures.
- To compare the antimicrobial efficacy of different chlorhexidine concentrations, vehicles, and application protocols.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases up to September 2024.
- Included were clinical studies assessing microbial load reduction (CFU) on dentures after chlorhexidine use.
- Meta-analysis and GRADE certainty assessment were employed to analyze antimicrobial efficacy.
Main Results:
- Twenty-two studies were included, with five contributing to the meta-analysis.
- Chlorhexidine demonstrated significant reduction in CFU counts across various concentrations (0.12% and 0.2%) and application methods (immersion, rinses, sprays).
- Pooled analysis confirmed significant microbial reduction over time, indicating chlorhexidine's broad effectiveness.
Conclusions:
- Chlorhexidine-based protocols are effective in disinfecting complete dentures, reducing microbial load.
- Effectiveness is observed irrespective of chlorhexidine concentration or mode of application.
- Standardized clinical studies are recommended to establish optimized and reproducible disinfection protocols for dental practice.
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