I have been using chlorhexidine oral rinse for gum disease everyday for months. i was wondering is this rinse safe to use long term?

Stain: About the only negative thing that might happen is staining your teeth and that can be polished off.

You shouldnt have to: Why are you using it long-term? It is an antibiotic rinse, and any infection should be cleared up without you having to rinse with it constantly.

Taste and stain: If your dentist/ hygienist recommends it for long term, you should follow instructions. Just note that the solution will stain teeth, but it's surface stain and can be fairly easy to remove in office.

Typically no.: This oral rinse is potent, and can kill most oral bacteria in a second upon contact. So this makes it an excellent mouth rinse and after your dental hygiene appointment, helps your mouth to stay clean while healing is taking place. (the cleaner, the faster the healing in any body parts) however, it is also important that you regain healthy flora of good bacteria. So it is not for long-term use.

Dip toothbrush: In order to reduce staining, I would suggest dipping the tooth brush and proxibrush in the solution, and using the toothbrush at a 45 degree angle between the tooth and gingiva. Although, the stains are easily removable by a professional cleaning, the stains can be unsightly.

Chlorhexidine.: Typically this is used short term during periodontal treatment to kill the bacteria causing disease and not as a long term treatment. Are you still seeing your dentist or periodontist on a regular basis? They can give you the best information about your particular case.

It's an aid: Chlorhexidine is a safe and ubiquitous medication that works wonderfully to control bacterial growth. That is, IF it can contact these organisms. Unfortunately it cannot get to areas below the gums where gum disease takes place. Flossing and regular professional treatment is absolutely necessary. The only untoward consequence is stained teeth.

See your dentist: An antibacterial mouthwash, like one with alcohol or chlorhexidine, may help prevent periodontal disease. Mouthwash is by no means a cure-all or replace visit to your dentist. See your dentist for periodontal evaluation, x-rays and treatment plan.