Corsodyl 1, Ulcers 0 (Corsodyl)

Member Name: star500

Product:	Corsodyl
Date:	30/12/01 (1427 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Helps shift ulcers, Good for gingivitis

Disadvantages: May discolour teeth

If, like me, you are one of those unfortunate people who suffer from mouth infections and ulcers whenever you are run down, tired or stressed out, you may find this review if some interest.


~ What is "Corsodyl" then?

Corsodyl is a mouthwash which is recommended by dentists for mouth infections such as those affecting the gums (gingivitis) as well as ordinary mouth ulcers. It is available on prescription but you can also buy it in pharmacies for around £3.99 for a 300ml bottle or £6.99 for a 600ml one. If you usually pay for your prescriptions, it may actually work out cheaper to buy it over the counter.

It is available in two flavours: mint and aniseed and, although I have used both, I find the mint version to be most pleasant as I hate anything containing aniseed. To be honest, though, neither flavour has a nice taste but the mint one generally leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean (as well as working on those mouth ulcers!!)


~ How do you use it?

It is very simple to use as you just rinse 10mls of the solution around your mouth for about one minute. The white cap on the bottle has a line which measures exactly 10mls so it is easy enough to fill the cap to the mark to ensure that you are using the correct amount. Remember, as with most mouthwashes you shouldn't swallow it so be careful if children are using it as they may not spit it out.

You should use it twice a day for several days until your mouth ulcer has cleared completely (it might be wise to use it for an extra day or so after it has gone, just to make sure that it won't come back). If you are using it for the treatment of gingivitis, you may find that you have to use it for a longer period of time but there are detailed instructions on the label of the bottle.

~ So why would I need a mouthwash?

For a lot of mouth ulcers, the application of a gel such as Bonjela or Anbesol may be enough to give r
elief (I personally use Bonjela) but sometimes, if the ulcers are on the tongue or in hard-to-reach areas, gels are not as practical or effective. This is where a mouthwash such as Corsodyl comes in handy as you just rinse it around your mouth instead of fiddling about trying to put some gel on an ulcer that is right at the back of your wisdom teeth.

Also, a mouthwash such as this is also better for generalised mouth infections as it has an antibacterial and cleanses the whole mouth as opposed to a gel which only acts on the areas that it is applied to.


~ Are there any side effects?

There aren't any side effects as such as you do not swallow it and thus it doesn't go into your system to cause any problems. However some people find that, after using it for a prolonged time, it can discolour teeth slightly. Mild discolouration can be removed by a scale and polish from your dental hygienist so it is not permanent.

I have found that to reduce the chance of discolouration occurring, it is best to use Corsodyl after brushing your teeth and to avoid tea, coffee and red wine (which can stain teeth anyway) for about an hour afterwards.

Personally, I have not experienced discolouration at all even thought I have used it on and off for quite a while. I suspect this is because I only use it for a few days at a time rather than constantly for a few weeks which some gingivitis suffers may need to use it for.


~ Who shouldn't use it?

The label on the bottle warns against using it if you are allergic to Chlorhexidine (the active ingredient) or any other of the ingredients listed. As with everything, it is always wise to check with the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, breast feeding or are taking any other medication.

As with all medical conditions, if the problem is persistent or worsens you should always seek medical advice, especially for "at risk" people (child
ren, elderly, pregnant, those on long term medication).

Children with mouth ulcers should always get them checked out by a doctor or dentist first before using a product such as this (which is not recommended for young children) especially if it is the first time that they have had an infection.


~ My personal thoughts

In my opinion, this is one of the best treatments I have come across for mouth ulcers. At £3.99, it does sound quite expensive but I feel it is worth it especially when you have an ulcer which won't respond to topical gels or is just in such a hard to reach area that you cannot apply a gel to.

As someone who suffers with mouth ulcers quite frequently, I always make sure that I have a bottle at home as I find that it helps to clear the infection in just a few days.

I hope you have found this review helpful, but I'd like to stress that, as with all medicines, you should always consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice before buying to ensure that the product is suitable for you.

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