Antimicrobial mouthrinses: impact on dental hygiene

Within the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation phases of the dental hygiene process of care model, the hygienist can decide which antimicrobial mouthrinse is best suited for a patient's given periodontal condition. First, the initial periodontal condition and the home care of the patient is assessed. Next, the hygienist can plan which protocol, in-office and/or at-home, will best meet the needs of the patient. Implementation of a program can include antimicrobial mouthrinses as an adjunct to scaling and root planing in the office, and the mechanical removal of plaque at home. Finally, the hygienist can evaluate the concerted efforts of both patient and clinician. Patients with extensive crowns and bridges, implants, and orthodontics can also benefit from the use of antimicrobial mouthrinses.