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What is Chlorhexidine?
Chlorhexidine is a powerful antibacterial agent used in mouthwash, toothpaste, and widely in hospital disinfection to prevent infections and maintain sterile environments. It is commonly used in dental procedures to prevent infections following surgeries or other invasive treatments in the mouth. In recent years, there has been an increase in chlorhexidine-containing mouthwashes and toothpastes being introduced in several countries for prolonged daily use, promising better oral health.
But what happens when bacteria are exposed to this substance over time? Luiza Bittencourt has been actively involved in researching this as part of a collaborative project between the Piracicaba Dental School at UNICAMP and the Institute of Oral Biology at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Oslo. Her work is supervised by Professor Ricomini Filho at UNICAMP and Professor Fernanda Petersen in Norway.
Increasing Bacterial Resistance
Professor Fernanda Petersen emphasizes the importance of these findings: " This work highlights how everyday hygiene products can have unintended consequences for bacterial evolution. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing safer and more effective antimicrobial strategies."
In this study, bacteria were exposed to several sub-inhibitory chlorhexidine concentrations for 7 to 14 days, and the results are concerning. The bacteria showed an increased resistance to chlorhexidine throughout the experiment, meaning they survived better even in the presence of the substance. These initial results suggest that repeated exposure to chlorhexidine over extended periods could lead to reduced effectiveness of this antimicrobial agent.
A key priority
Professor Tove I. Wigen, Vise Dean for Studies and Education concludes, "For the Faculty of Dentistry, student exchange programs are a key priority. They provide students with valuable academic and research experiences while fostering global collaboration. Such initiatives not only enhance individual learning but also contribute to strengthening research networks. By engaging with students from diverse backgrounds, we help shape future professionals who can contribute to scientific advancements and international cooperation."