Finding the best mouthwash can be tough with so many options available. Many mouthwashes carry the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, meaning they meet safety and efficacy standards. Choosing the right one is key, as different mouthwashes serve different purposes. A good mouthwash helps keep teeth and gums healthy, preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
Using mouthwash along with brushing and flossing supports oral health. For people at a higher risk of gum disease, a mouthwash that kills bacteria can make a big difference. Experts like Dr. Scott Cardall say it’s an essential addition for those dealing with cavities and bad breath.
Choosing the right mouthwash can feel overwhelming when faced with the wide selection in the oral health aisle. Each product has unique ingredients and claims. With the right information and a simple guide, you can make an easier choice that best suits your oral health needs.
Understanding How Mouthwashes Work
Mouthwashes are designed to help with common mouth care needs, like reducing plaque build-up and keeping breath fresh. Many have a strong-tasting mint flavour and strong-smelling scent for freshness. The key ingredient, fluoride (also found in toothpaste), works to strengthen enamel and prevent acid erosion caused when sugars react with teeth. Some mouthwashes also include antibacterial or antiseptic agents, like cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), to loosen debris and protect gums from recession.
Expert Picks: Best Mouth washes for Healthier Teeth And Gums
Alcohol-free mouthwash for fresh breath
Crest Pro-Health Multiprotection Mouthwash
Crest Pro-Health Multiprotection Mouthwash offers a gentle, alcohol-free formula with cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) as its main antimicrobial agent to help lessen bad breath, prevent tooth decay, and address issues like gingivitis and receding gums.
Ideal for those with dry mouth or sensitive gums, this mouthwash avoids the burning sensation found in some alcohol-based products, and many users enjoy its refreshing minty aftertaste. Though it may temporarily stain teeth and cause a slight taste change for some, strategic brushing and regular cleanings at the dentist can help maintain gum health while minimizing these effects.
Pros
- Clears up mouth issues
- Refreshing aftertaste
- Gentle, non-burning formula
Cons
- Strong aftertaste lingers
- Slight taste change for some
Notable Specs
Formulated with: CPC for antimicrobial action | Alcohol-Free | Flavor Profile: Refreshing Mint | Suited For: Dry mouth, sensitive gums
Best anticavity Mouthwash
ACT Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
ACT Total Care is a highly effective mouthwash that is aluminum-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, and phthalate-free, making it a safe option for daily oral care. Its active ingredient, fluoride, is well-known for reducing dental decay, strengthening tooth enamel, and promoting healthy gums.
This mouthwash comes in two flavors: one formulated with 11 percent alcohol and the other being alcohol-free. Both options offer a great way to maintain oral health and prevent decay while also freshening your breath. With its combination of beneficial ingredients, ACT Total Care is an effective choice for anyone seeking a reliable and gentle mouthwash to support their oral hygiene.
Pros
- Potent, fresh-tasting formula
- Effective against cavities
- Promotes shiny, clean teeth
Cons
- Some may find the taste bitter
Notable Specs
Formulated with: Fluoride for cavity prevention | Alcohol Content: Available in alcohol-free and 11% alcohol | Flavor Profile: Fresh Mint | Suited For: Daily use, sensitive gums
Best Mouthwash Overall
Listerine Total Care Zero Alcohol
Listerine Total Care Zero Alcohol is a mouthwash trusted by board-certified dentists like Michael J. Wei, DDS, from New York City, for its gentle formula and effectiveness. It not only freshens breath but also protects against cavities with its fluoride formula, making it ideal for strengthening tooth enamel and maintaining healthy gums.
Praised by Naomi Levy Goldman, DDS, a restorative dentist in Peabody, Massachusetts, its zero-alcohol feature prevents your mouth from drying out, reducing the chances of tooth decay. This carefully crafted formula ensures a comfortable and safe choice for daily oral care.
Pros
- Prevents stank mouth
- Leaves your mouth feeling clean
- Alcohol-free formula
Cons
- Some users prefer a stronger flavor
- May feel harsh on sensitive teeth
Notable Specs
Formulated with: Fluoride for cavity protection and enamel strengthening | Alcohol-Free | Flavor Profile: Mild and refreshing | Suited For: Dry mouth, higher risk of tooth decay, sensitive teeth and gums
Best for Dry Mouth
ACT Total Care Dry Mouth
ACT Dry Mouth mouthwash is a great choice for those dealing with dry mouth. This alcohol-free formula is designed to reduce dryness for several hours after use, without causing any burn. It contains fluoride, a known cavity fighter, helping protect your teeth while keeping your mouth comfortable. One of the key ingredients, xylitol, is an inactive ingredient that helps boost saliva production and reduces S. mutans bacteria, which cause plaque to form.
To get the best results, users should follow the package directions and swish the mouthwash in the mouth for at least 1 full minute. Many users find that it tastes good, making it an easy task to incorporate into their routine. It’s an effective product for managing dry mouth while also supporting oral health.
Pros
- Soothes and moisturizes dry mouth
- Freshens breath and kills bacteria
- Helps strengthen teeth with fluoride
- Provides immediate refreshing sensation
Cons
- Not suitable for children’s use
- Confusion about xylitol's active role
Notable Specs
Formulated with: Fluoride for cavity protection, xylitol to boost saliva production | Alcohol-Free: Prevents burning sensation | Flavor Profile: Pleasant taste | Suited For: Dry mouth relief, plaque prevention, oral comfort
Best for reducing plaque buildup and keeping breath fresh
Colgate Total Pro-Shield
Colgate Total Pro-Shield is known for its mild, peppermint taste and alcohol-free formula, making it a gentle yet effective option for daily use. Its active ingredient, cetylpyridinium chloride, works wonders in reducing plaque buildup while keeping your breath fresh. Personally, I find it refreshing and ideal after eating meals, as it provides long-lasting protection for up to 12 hours.
This mouthwash is excellent at eliminating bacteria that cause gingivitis, which, if left unchecked, can lead to periodontitis and receding gums. It’s an effective way to protect your oral health without the harshness of alcohol, ensuring a clean and healthy mouth every time you rinse.
Pros
- Alcohol-free, prevents gum irritation
- No burning sensation after use
- Effective for daily mouth care
Cons
- Lacks intense clean feeling for some
- Personal preference may vary on flavor
Notable Specs
Formulated with: Cetylpyridinium chloride for plaque reduction | Alcohol-Free: Gentle, no burning sensation | Flavor Profile: Mild peppermint taste | Protection Duration: Up to 12 hours | Suited For: Plaque buildup, fresh breath, gingivitis prevention, periodontitis, receding gums
How to choose a mouthwash
When choosing the best mouthwash, you’ll first need to decide between cosmetic and therapeutic options. Cosmetic mouthwashes are designed to control bad breath temporarily and leave a pleasant taste in your mouth. They are effective in freshening up your breath but do not provide long-lasting benefits. On the other hand, therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients designed for more long-term results, such as bacterial reduction. These can help with receding gums, gingivitis, dry mouth, and plaque buildup. They may be available over-the-counter or by prescription and work by treating various conditions.
For those dealing with periodontal disease, look for natural mouthwashes that are gentler on gum tissue and less likely to irritate. Essential oils such as mint, clove, and eucalyptus offer powerful anti-inflammatory properties to reduce pain and soothe gums. Antibacterial agents like hydrogen peroxide and tea tree oil can help kill bacteria that contribute to gum issues. The right mouthwash should also protect your teeth and gums, reduce inflammation, and destroy harmful bacteria. Lastly, always take your budget into account—while a lower price may seem appealing, many budget-friendly options do not compromise on quality, offering practical solutions for maintaining a healthy mouth.
How to Use Mouthwash (and Why It’s Worth It)
Using mouthwash is a simple and effective way to freshen your breath, but it can also provide additional benefits for people dealing with specific oral health care issues. According to Dr. Rahmani, mouthwash can be a helpful add-on to your regular brushing and flossing routine. However, it’s less important than these two habits. For best results, use mouthwash twice a day. Simply swish the recommended amount in your mouth for 30 seconds, gargle, and then spit. Make sure not to rinse with water afterward, as this can wash away important ingredients like fluoride, which helps in protecting your teeth from cavities. The American Dental Association suggests using it either before or after brushing, but following the manufacturer’s instructions will give you the maximum benefit.
For those prone to cavities or with conditions like dry mouth or gum disease, the right mouthwash can make a big difference. Dr. Cardall recommends using one with fluoride before brushing to avoid washing away the fluoride your toothpaste contains. Kids under six years old should only use mouthwash if instructed by a dentist. Always make sure to follow the instructions on the bottle to use it effectively, and if you’re dealing with specific predispositions, choosing the right mouthwash can help tackle the issue.
Safety Guidelines for Mouthwash Use
When it comes to using mouthwashes, it’s essential to follow the recommended age guidelines. Most mouthwashes are suitable for children aged 6 years old and above, and should be used under supervision if the child is prone to swallowing it. For younger children, particularly those under 6 years old, the ADA advises against using mouthwash unless specifically recommended by a dentist. Additionally, mouthwashes containing alcohol may not be ideal for individuals trying to avoid alcohol or for those who are sensitive to it, making these unsuitable for certain users. Always make sure to check the product and consult with a professional before purchasing for young users to ensure it is the right choice.
