Advances in Oral Medicine

Diagnostic Strategies, Evidence-Based Clinical Management, and the Role of Chlorhexidine

Authors

  • Alaa Mohammed Shaheed
  • Yaqoob Yousif Kadhim Higher Diploma in Oral Diagnosis – Al-Mahmoudiya Specialized Center for Dentistry

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/d3000.2026.1447

Keywords:

Oral Medicine, Evidence-Based Dentistry, Chlorhexidine, Saliva, Diagnosis

Abstract

This review aimed to discuss the present diagnostic modalities in oral medicine and explore the supportive role of chlorhexidine in modern oral health care. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. The literature of the period 2015–2026 on oral medicine diagnostics, clinical management, oral potentially malignant disorders, oral infections, salivary biomarkers and applications of chlorhexidine were reviewed. Studies were included for their scientific relevance, methodological quality and clinical applicability. There is now considerable evidence of significant advances in the diagnosis of oral medicine being achieved by the combined use of salivary biomarkers, molecular diagnostics, enhanced imaging, and artificial intelligence-based screening systems. The clinical management strategies of oral potentially malignant disorders, oral mucosal diseases, autoimmune diseases, fungal diseases and oral manifestations of systemic diseases have been improved through evidence based clinical management strategies with improved treatment outcomes. Despite some long-term side effects like tooth staining and taste changes, chlorhexidine continues to be an effective adjunctive therapeutic agent for plaque control, oral infection management, peri-operative care, and maintenance of oral health. The multidisciplinary diagnostic approach and evidence-based therapeutic interventions are increasingly the methods used in modern oral medicine. Modern diagnostic tests enable earlier diagnosis and better treatment of patients. Chlorhexidine remains as a supportive role in the overall treatment protocols but still should be used based on current clinical guidelines and patient needs.

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Published

2026-07-02

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Development of Craniofacial Structures

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Alaa Mohammed Shaheed, Yaqoob Yousif Kadhim

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Revised 7/16/2018. Revision Description: Removed outdated link.