National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Which of the following solutions is NOT commonly used for subgingival irrigation?

1. Chlorhexidine digluconate

2. Stannous Fluoride

3. Listerine

4. Povidone-iodine

The correct answer is: Listerine

Subgingival irrigation is a therapeutic technique that helps to deliver antimicrobial agents to the periodontal pockets, thereby aiding in the management of periodontal disease. Among the options provided, Listerine is not typically used for subgingival irrigation, which makes it the correct answer to the question. Chlorhexidine digluconate is widely recognized for its antimicrobial properties and is often recommended for use in subgingival irrigation due to its effectiveness in reducing bacterial load and promoting gum health. Similarly, stannous fluoride, known for its ability to reduce plaque formation and gingivitis, may also be used in some settings for its therapeutic benefits. Povidone-iodine is another antiseptic that can be employed for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties in certain clinical situations involving subgingival sites. While Listerine contains some antiseptic ingredients such as essential oils, it is primarily used as a mouth rinse rather than a subgingival irrigant. Its formulation lacks the specific characteristics and concentration of active ingredients that are typically required for effective subgingival application. Thus, Listerine does not align with the standard practices regarding subgingival irrigation solutions.