topical antimicrobials

mechanical oral hygiene

1. safe (non toxic or allergenic, no unfavorable microflora made)
2. effective for both plaque and gingivitis
3. proper substantivity; bound to, slowly released from oral surface
4. specific effects on pathogenic flora
5. acceptable taste, low cost, ease of use

chlorhexidine

products containing essential oils and cetylpyridinium chloride (EOs and CPC)

colgate total SF and crest pro-health (stannous fluoride)

peridex

rupture bact cell membrane to cause leakage
bind salivary mucin, reducing pellicle formation
bind bact, inhibit adsorption onto teeth

tin or metallic taste
stain on tongue and teeth; REVERSIBLE
inc calculus formation