Is mouthwash necessary?

Is mouthwash necessary?

The ADA says mouthrinse can be a helpful addition to oral hygiene but is not a replacement for daily brushing and flossing, and that it can reach areas a toothbrush misses. Healthline says most dental professionals consider mouthwashes, most of which are used for freshening breath, optional. A mouthwash adds little if brushing and cleaning between your teeth are not already done well.

Who may benefit from a mouthwash

The ADA says mouthrinse may help people who cannot control plaque and gingivitis with brushing and interdental cleaning alone, people with dry mouth, bad breath or pain from oral sores, and that dentists may recommend it for specific conditions such as dry socket. ADA News says mouthwash can help prevent tooth decay, reduce plaque and reduce gingivitis, and that choosing a product that fits your dental needs supports oral health.

Cosmetic and therapeutic rinses

The ADA says cosmetic rinses only mask bad breath temporarily and have no lasting antimicrobial effect. Therapeutic rinses contain active ingredients aimed at controlling bad breath, plaque, gingivitis or tooth decay. Some are over the counter, and others, such as chlorhexidine rinses, need a prescription. The ADA says chlorhexidine helps control plaque and gingivitis and lowers the risk of dry socket after third molar extraction, but can stain teeth, tongue and restorations, change taste and cause calculus build-up. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance on over-the-counter products.

Does alcohol-free mouthwash work?

The ADA says alcohol can be drying, so an alcohol-free rinse may be advisable for people with dry mouth. The sources we read do not compare how well alcohol-free and alcohol-containing rinses work. What matters most is the active ingredient and whether the product is therapeutic or cosmetic, so check the label for what it claims to do and for the ADA Seal.

Should you use mouthwash before or after brushing?

The ADA says it is largely a matter of personal preference, though some toothpaste ingredients can reduce fluoride's effectiveness and manufacturers may specify an order, so check the label. ADA News says to use mouthwash at a separate time from brushing, not right after, because brushing right before can wash away fluoride from the toothpaste and some toothpaste ingredients can reduce the mouthwash's effects. Healthline says rinsing right after brushing with water erases much of the fluoride's benefit, and that the NHS suggests waiting about 20 minutes after brushing, especially for alcohol-based or non-fluoride rinses.

How often should you use mouthwash?

The ADA page does not give a general frequency for over-the-counter rinses, and says prescription rinses should be used as directed for dose, frequency and time in the mouth. Follow the label. After using a fluoride-based mouthwash, ADA News says to wait at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking.

Can kids use mouthwash?

The ADA says children under 6 should not use mouthrinse unless a dentist directs it, because they may swallow large amounts, and to check product labels for age guidance. Cleveland Clinic says children under 6 should not use fluoride mouth rinses unless a dentist or healthcare provider recommends it. For children old enough, supervise them so they spit it out.

What mouthwash cannot do

Mouthwash does not remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing miss, and cosmetic rinses only mask odor. If you have persistent bad breath, bleeding gums or pain, see a dentist rather than adding a rinse. Our flossing and teeth cleaning guides explain the basics.

Questions to ask your dentist

If you are deciding whether to add a rinse, these questions help.

• Do my gums or breath suggest I would benefit from a rinse?
• Which product should I choose, and does it carry the ADA Seal?
• How should I time it with brushing and flossing?
• Is it safe for my child, and from what age?
• What else should I do about bad breath or bleeding gums?

Frequently asked questions