{"id":4630,"date":"2026-07-01T20:12:01","date_gmt":"2026-07-01T20:12:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=4630"},"modified":"2026-07-01T20:12:01","modified_gmt":"2026-07-01T20:12:01","slug":"these-18-dentist-recommended-mouthwashes-cater-to-every-oral-concern-from-bad-breath-to-dry-mouth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=4630","title":{"rendered":"These 18 dentist-recommended mouthwashes cater to every oral concern, from bad breath to dry mouth"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Our featured picks<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nTheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nSmart Mouth Clinical Breath Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nCrest Pro Health Complete Clean Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n Mouthwash is a worthy complement to an oral care routine that already includes brushing and flossing, but a quick internet browse reveals a frankly overwhelming number of options. To help you decide, we reached out to dental experts for their recommendations and oral hygiene tips and consulted our editors for their personal favorites.\n <\/p>

Read more \u2018The greatest cosmic movie ever made\u2019: Historic telescope kicks off an unprecedented survey<\/a><\/p>\n

\n When choosing the best mouthwash for your needs, first consider your primary oral concern to narrow down the options. \u201cA good rinse can reduce plaque and gingivitis, freshen breath, deliver fluoride to hard-to-reach areas and, in some formulations, work to remineralize enamel,\u201d said Dr. Clement Kairouz , a cosmetic dentist at Apa Aesthetic. We\u2019ve organized our list by category to help you in your search. Whatever you choose, you\u2019ll be swishing in no time.\n <\/p>\n

\n Best mouthwashes for bad breath\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nTheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\"TheraBreath<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n<\/div>\n
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Bad breath, or halitosis, \u201cprimarily originates from odor-producing bacteria living on the tongue and between the teeth and gums,\u201d Kairouz said. In addition to flossing, proper hydration and regular professional dental cleanings, look for a mouthwash that won\u2019t just mask the odor, but eradicate it. Kairouz recommends TheraBreath\u2019s Fresh Breath Oral Rinse, which is formulated to \u201cneutralize volatile sulfur compounds.\u201d With its 24-hour protection against bad breath, you\u2019ll feel more confident all day long.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $8 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $8 at Target\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $11 at Ulta Beauty\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $15 (2-pack) at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nGuruNanda Dual-Barrel Breath Harmonizer Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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The dual-barrel chambers in this GuruNanda mouthwash contain an essential oil blend and sodium chlorite that, when mixed together, activate to create an odor-neutralizing and plaque-fighting rinse. Dr. Anjali Rajpal, a cosmetic dentist and the founder of Beverly Hills Dental Arts, likes this fluoride-free rinse for those looking for long-lasting fresh breath and a more holistic approach to oral care. <\/p>

This mouthwash is also alcohol-free, which, according to orthodontist Dr. Erin Fraundorf, can be a better alternative for some people. \u201cThe acid in mouth rinse with alcohol creates an acidic environment and actually promotes demineralization of your enamel,\u201d she said. \u201cIt additionally can lead to bad breath by drying out your mouth, leading to a buildup of bad bacteria that cause bad breath, and killing good bacteria, leading to an imbalance in the microflora that causes bad breath.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$13<\/s>\n $10 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$13<\/s>\n $10 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nListerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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If you\u2019re looking for an all-in-one mouthwash packed with whole-mouth benefits, Dr. Michael J. Wei, cosmetic dentist and founder of Manhattan Cosmetic Dentist, recommends this Listerine Total Care mouthwash. Made with fluoride for cavity protection, this rinse also fights plaque buildup and comes packed with essential oils to help kill bad breath-causing germs. It\u2019s important to note that this mouthwash contains 21.6% alcohol by volume. Mouthwashes that contain alcohol can be irritating for those with sensitive gums, and are \u201cnot appropriate for children, pregnant patients or anyone in recovery from alcohol use disorder,\u201d Kairouz said. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $9 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $9 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$11<\/s>\n $9 at Walgreens\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best alcohol-free mouthwashes for dry mouth\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nHello Peace Out Plaque Natural Mint Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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If you have sensitive gums, Kairouz recommends avoiding certain ingredients: \u201cAlcohol-based mouthwashes can be drying and irritating to already-compromised enamel and gum tissue, while whitening rinses with hydrogen peroxide tend to intensify sensitivity with frequent use.\u201d <\/p>

This mouthwash replaces harsh irritants with ingredients like xylitol and essential oils. CNN Underscored programming editor Amissa Pitter uses the natural mint formula daily. \u201cIngredients like coconut and tea tree leaf oil help keep my mouth feeling fresh without an overpowering sensation or taste,\u201d she said. At $7, it\u2019s also one of the more affordable options on this list. You can also buy it at Amazon as part of the brand’s fluoride-free whitening pack.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $7 at Hello\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nAct Dry Mouth Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, requires serious attention. \u201cSaliva is your mouth\u2019s primary natural defense mechanism; without it, your risk for aggressive cavities and gum disease drastically increases,\u201d Kairouz said. She recommends this rinse from Act to add moisture to your mouth. Its active ingredient, xylitol, actively stimulates saliva production and helps hydrate oral tissues.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$11<\/s>\n $10 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$16<\/s>\n $10 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBiot\u00e8ne Dry Mouth Oral Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201cIf you’re managing dry mouth \u2014 whether due to medication, age or health conditions like Sj\u00f6gren\u2019s [Disease] \u2014 Biot\u00e8ne Dry Mouth Oral Rinse is a highly recommended solution,\u201d Fraundorf said. Dr. Arthur Glosman, a cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California, also recommends Biot\u00e8ne for dry mouth, noting that it contains xylitol and leaves out potentially irritating ingredients like alcohol or whitening agents. Fraundorf said you can use this pH-balanced rinse several times a day to help with saliva replacement. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$8<\/s>\n From $7 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $9 at CVS\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $11 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nColgate Total Alcohol-Free Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Wei also likes this Colgate mouthwash, which claims to kill 99% of germs that cause bad breath, gingivitis and plaque on contact. Many dental institutions, like Vista Dorada Dental, recommend alcohol-free formulas for more regular use up to twice a day because they’re less irritating and less likely to cause dry mouth. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$16<\/s>\n $19 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $36 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nSuperMouth Non-Fluoride Nano-Hydroxyapatite Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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If you\u2019re tired of mint-flavored mouthwashes \u2014 or want something safe for your kiddos to use too \u2014 try this SuperMouth wash, which is fluoride-free and available in three ice cream-inspired flavors: vanilla, strawberry and chocolate. While this wash is free from alcohol, essential oils and artificial colors and flavors, it is formulated with nano-hydroxyapatite to help keep teeth strong. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $19 at SuperMouth\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best mouthwashes for cavities\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nTheraBreath Anticavity Fluoride Oral Rinse, 2-Pack\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Our team includes many fans of TheraBreath\u2019s line of mouthwashes, including CNN Underscored beauty and fashion editor Sophie Shaw. \u201cI was never very consistent about using mouthwash until I tried TheraBreath’s Anticavity Oral Rinse,\u201d Shaw said. \u201cIt’s alcohol-free so it doesn’t sting, and it has such a satisfying minty flavor that always leaves my mouth feeling fresh.\u201d Not all Therabreath mouthwashes contain fluoride, so if you\u2019re looking for a mouthwash to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities, go for the pink bottle.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $17 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$18<\/s>\n $17 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nAct Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Both Wei and Dr. Kevin B. Sands, a cosmetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California, like this affordable and effective mouthwash from Act. Made with sodium fluoride to help strengthen enamel, it\u2019s a great option for those looking to prevent cavities or who are already cavity-prone, according to Wei. It\u2019s also formulated without alcohol, so it won\u2019t sting or leave your mouth feeling dry after use.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $7 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $7 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best whitening mouthwashes\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nCrest 3D White Brilliance Stain Prevention Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Glosman said while mouthwashes \u201ccan help remove surface stains, which gives the appearance of a whiter tooth,” only true chemical bleaching processes whiten teeth. If a professional treatment is out of the question, he recommends Crest 3D White to make your smile look brighter. The rinse is safe to use daily, and the hydrogen-peroxide-infused formula helps prevent surface stains from settling into teeth.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$10<\/s>\n $9 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $9 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$10<\/s>\n $9 at Walgreens\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nCrest 3D White Glamorous White Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Sands said this Crest 3D White rinse is his go-to whitening mouthwash. Formulated with hydrogen peroxide for whitening, this alcohol-free mouthwash promises fresh breath after every use and a brighter smile in just seven days. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $9 at Walgreens\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nEssential Oxygen BR Organic Mouthwash and Brushing Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Rajpal also likes this Essential Oxygen rinse, which combines food-grade hydrogen peroxide and a blend of essential oils to help naturally whiten teeth and freshen breath. This rinse can be used before brushing, while brushing or after brushing as a regular mouthwash, plus any time you just want an extra boost of fresh breath.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n From $13 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOpalescence Whitening Mouthwash, 2-Pack\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201cWhitening mouthwashes typically use low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to gently lift surface stains,\u201d Glosman said. \u201cWith consistent use, you might notice a subtle brightening effect.\u201d <\/p>

CNN Underscored\u2019s health and fitness editor, Summer Cartwright, saw a difference after a few weeks using Opalescence mouthwash: \u201cThe coffee stains are faded and overall, my teeth look much more vibrant. Plus, the mouthwash never leads to any irritation or discomfort.\u201d <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $28 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\n14 whitening toothpastes that are safe for every smile, recommended by dentists<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best mouthwashes for gum health\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nSmart Mouth Clinical Breath Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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For gingivitis and plaque control, Glosman recommends antibacterial rinses containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC). This option from Smart Mouth, an over-the-counter replacement for chlorhexidine rinse, includes CPC as its active ingredient. Clinically proven to help prevent gingivitis and bleeding gums, it also uses zinc ion technology to target bad breath, according to Rajpal.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $11 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nCloSys Fresh Breath Sensitive Mouth Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Mouthwashes can help penetrate deeper into gum pockets to reduce inflammation in areas that your toothbrush bristles can\u2019t reach. This powerful antibacterial mouthwash is Kairouz\u2019s go-to recommendation. \u201cThe formula is alcohol-free, pH-balanced and contains stabilized chlorine dioxide to eliminate odor-causing bacteria without the burning sensation or tissue irritation common to alcohol-based rinses. It’s gentle enough for sensitive gums or dry mouth, yet effective for daily oral health.\u201d <\/p>

Read more Jason Miller set to join White House again \u2014 with a messaging mission<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n From $11 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $14 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$17<\/s>\n $14 at Walgreens\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nTheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Anyone managing gum sensitivity or active gum disease should \u201cavoid harsh astringents such as high-concentration menthol until the tissue has fully healed,\u201d Kairouz said. Sands recommends this dentist-formulated anti-gingivitis mouthwash, which is free from alcohol, sodium lauryl sulfate and other potential irritants. Sands said the ingredients are effective at attacking bacteria linked to gum disease while still being gentle enough to use daily.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$9<\/s>\n $8 at CVS\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $9 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $10 at Walgreens\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n From $13 at Ulta Beauty\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nCrest Pro Health Complete Clean Mouthwash\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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This Crest Pro Health mouthwash is a favorite of Wei\u2019s since it\u2019s made to help reduce gum inflammation, prevent plaque buildup and kill bad-breath-causing bacteria in the mouth. It\u2019s also alcohol-free and perfect for daily use if you want extra prevention against the causes of early gum disease. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $5 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $6 at Target\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nHow to whiten teeth at home, according to dentists<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n What to look for in a mouthwash\n<\/h2>\n

\n There are loads of different mouthwashes out there to choose from, but the one that\u2019s best for you will depend on what specific oral concerns you\u2019re looking to address. \u201cMany people choose mouthwash based on flavor or branding without considering whether it meets their specific oral health needs,\u201d Fraundorf said. \u201cFor example, someone dealing with gum inflammation may need an antimicrobial formula, while someone prone to cavities may benefit more from a fluoride-based rinse.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Fraundorf recommends consulting your dentist to determine your specific oral health needs but offered some common ingredients to be on the lookout for. Mouthwashes formulated with fluoride, calcium phosphate or nano-hydroxyapatite can help to remineralize enamel, which aids in preventing cavities and reducing teeth sensitivity, while ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride are antimicrobial and can help to reduce plaque and bacteria responsible for gingivitis and bad breath, according to Fraundorf. Rajpal said some natural ingredients such as essential oil blends containing mint, eucalyptus and tea tree oil, or zinc can be helpful for neutralizing odor and freshening breath, adding that some mouthwashes made with synthetic ingredients or artificial dyes might irritate sensitive mouths.\n <\/p>\n

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\nRelated article<\/span>\nWhat is hydroxyapatite toothpaste? Dentists explain the benefits of the oral care ingredient<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Our dental experts said it\u2019s important to remember that mouthwash is not a replacement for regular brushing and flossing. \u201cWhile [mouthwash] can be a helpful supplement and add-on to your oral care routine, it doesn\u2019t physically remove plaque or food particles the way brushing and flossing do,\u201d Fraundorf said. \u201cIt should always be seen as an add-on, not a substitute.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Wei said to follow the recommended guidelines for using mouthwash per the instructions on the label, including following the recommended duration of time for rinsing and frequency of use. Both Rajpal and Wei added that you should not rinse your mouth with water immediately after using a mouthwash, since this can wash away active ingredients and reduce the overall effectiveness.\n <\/p>\n

\n The dental experts we spoke to also cautioned against overusing mouthwash, specifically ones formulated with alcohol. \u201cUsing mouthwash too frequently \u2014 especially those with alcohol or strong antibacterial agents \u2014 can lead to oral tissue dryness, irritation or disruption of the healthy oral microbiome,\u201d Fraundorf said. \u201cThis is especially important for people with sensitive tissues or dry mouth conditions.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

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