Table 1.

The comparison of CHX, sodium fluoride, and HOCl in commercial mouthwashes.

Antibacterial agent	Chlorhexidine (CHX)	Sodium fluoride	Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl)
Antibacterial mechanism	Damaging the cytoplasmic membrane to increase the inner permeability and to result in the membrane damage or loss of structural organization.22	Releasing F− to create an over-acidification of the cytoplasm resulting in the disruption of bacteria.23	Inhibiting DNA synthesis and causing partial inhibition of membrane protein synthesis.24
Advantages	Bacteria will not develop to resist CHX.25	Good routine home care oral hygiene in children due to anti-carcinogenic properties.4	Dissolves in water, and does not cause damage to the environment.3
Side effects or disadvantages	Staining on teeth and dental mucosa; alternates taste perception.2	Risk of ingestion resulting in toxicity.4	Easily degraded and required to be prepared freshly.3