Oral hygiene is crucial for everyone. Whether it is through toothpaste or mouthwash but everyone is concerned about the best quality. With the best toothpaste for gingivitis or plaque, you also need the best mouthwash for gums and teeth. This article is about the best mouthwashes for gums and teeth.

In this article, I will help you choose the best mouthwash for gums and teeth. First, I will give you a little detail about mouthwash and then I will give you a list.

If you are out of time let me pick the best mouthwash for you.

If you are searching for the best Fluoride mouthwash select Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash.


In antiseptic mouthwashes, CloSYS Sensitive Antimicrobial Mouthwash stands best.

Colgate Optic White Whitening Mouthwash is the best cosmetic mouthwash.

Tom’s of Maine Natural Alcohol-Free Mouthwash stands best in Natural (plant-based) mouthwash.

In prescription mouthwash, Oral-B Mouth Sore Mouthwash is recommended for conditions like ulcers or inflamed tissues of the mouth.

If you are looking for Total care mouthwash that aims to strengthen the teeth, fight plaque, gum bleeding, gum inflammation and swelling, gingivitis, and bad breath then Listerine Total Care Alcohol-Free Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash is best for you.

For your kids’ ACT Kids Anticavity Fluoride Rinse Bubble Gum Blowout is best to protect and care for their teeth.

But let me define to you what is mouthwash?

“Mouthwash or mouth bath or mouth rinse or oral rinse” is a liquid containing antiseptic and breadth sweetening agent which is swilled around the mouth by the perioral muscles or movement of the head used for cleaning mouth and teeth and for gargling.”

Why mouthwash is necessary though we brush our teeth daily?

Well, mouthwash is necessary because it helps overall oral benefits and reduces bacteria which is the cause of plaque formation in the mouth. Also, their regular use prevents gingivitis and periodontal disease and reduces cavities.

But I have heard that people use mouthwash for bad breath too?

You heard correctly because bacteria feed on left food particles in teeth and gums if someone eats food and doesn’t brush that will result in a bad odor due to bacterial activities and growth, and as already discussed mouthwash kills bacteria resulting in freshening the breath.

How much do I have to wait after toothbrushes to use mouthwash?

After brushing fluoride toothpaste, the fluoride is left on your teeth which works slowly against cavities so it is recommended not to gargle with mouthwash immediately after the toothbrush because it will wash away the fluoride left on your teeth due to brushing.

Is it good to eat after the mouthwash?

No, at least don’t drink or eat for 30 minutes after gargling a fluoride toothpaste because eating or drinking can wash away leftover fluoride from your teeth.

What is the best time to gargle mouthwash?

It is recommended to follow the instructions given on your mouthwash or by your dentist but the best time for gargling is after when you have waited half an hour to brush your teeth.

Also, it should be remembered that bedtime is best for brushing, flossing, or mouth rinsing because that way your teeth are free of plaque and provide you the longest period for action.

How should I use mouthwash?

There is a specific mark on every mouthwash showing the amount of mouthwash to use but you should gargle with a 20ml solution which is equal to 4 teaspoons and it is almost prescribed by every mouth rinse brand.

How much time I should gargle or swill?

30 to 45 seconds are standard to swill which can wet the mouth effectively.

How much time it is recommended to use it?

Mostly it is recommended to use it twice a day after brushing.

What is the best way to gargle that works effectively?

First, read the instructions on your mouthwash and then put the required amount (3-4 teaspoons) in the cap of mouthwash or in a cup and then put it in your mouth and swilled around your mouth. The next step is to move back the mouthwash liquid to the back of your mouth and force the air from your throat to the outside so that the gargling effect is shown.

Does a mouth bath substitute brush or flossing?

The answer is NO because the study has shown that only a mouth bath or mouthwash can’t remove the plaque stick in your teeth.

Can I use every mouthwash daily?
Well, all mouthwashes are not equal some mouthwashes are for bad breath, and some mouthwashes have a stronger antiseptic activity which is used especially after gum surgery or implants or made for other gum diseases, so these kinds of mouthwashes don’t require daily use because it has stronger antiseptic which can stain your teeth and also have not good taste.

Then which mouthwash I can use regularly?

Fluoride mouthwash and alcohol-free are the best choices for daily use.

I have heard that lemon juice and baking soda are a good combination for cleaning teeth, Is it good to use?

No, because lemon juice slowly eats away the hard enamel tissue of the teeth, and then baking soda adds more damage to soft teeth due to lemon. Of course, it will help to remove stains on smokers’ teeth and tea and coffee lovers teeth, whose teeth are more likely to be stained but at the same time, they are damaging their teeth too.

What about children? can children gargle with mouthwash?

It is not recommended to use mouthwash under the age of 12 years but alcohol-free mouthwash can be recommended and should be used in the presence of parents or any adult who can be sure of the correct use. It should be consulted before use with your dentist and doctor.

Can you explain their types and the best example?

Following are the types of mouthwash:

1. Fluoride mouthwash

As the name indicates, this type of mouthwash has sodium fluoride as the main ingredient. Fluoride is famous for the protection of teeth against decay and cavities.

Following is a list of some of the best Fluoride mouthwashes.

A) Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

Active ingredients:

• Sodium fluoride 0.02% (0.01% w/v fluoride ion) (anticavity)

Inactive ingredients:

• Water
  
• sorbitol solution
  
• alcohol (21.6%)
  
• poloxamer 407
  
• sodium lauryl sulfate
  
• eucalyptol, flavor
  
• methyl salicylate
  
• thymol, phosphoric acid
  
• sucralose
  
• menthol
  
• disodium phosphate
  
• FD&C red no. 40
  
• FD&C blue no. 1

Benefits:

• Listerine Fluoride Anticavity Mouthwash in fresh mint flavor improves oral health by helping to prevent cavities, strengthening teeth, and leaving a refreshing, clean feeling you can taste.
  
• Kill the germs that cause bad breath.
  
• Strengthen the teeth, restore enamel, and help to prevent cavities.
  
• Freshen the breath.
  
• Prevent tooth decay.
  
• Accepted by the American Dental Association’s (ADA) Seal of Acceptance Program.
  

B) Act Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

Active ingredient:

• Sodium fluoride 0.05% (0.02% w/v fluoride ion)

Inactive ingredients:

• Water
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Menthol
  
• Methyl Salicylate
  
• Sodium Phosphate
  
• Disodium Phosphate
  
• Potassium Sorbate
  
• Polysorbate 20
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Flavor
  
• Cetylpyridinium Chloride
  
• Calcium Disodium Edta
  
• Sodium Benzoate
  
• Green 3
  
• Yellow 5

Benefits:

• Kill the bad breath and make it fresh.
  
• Strengthens the enamel.
  
• Restore minerals to soft spots of teeth.
  
• Restores and refreshes

C) Solimo Anticavity Fluoride Rinse

Active ingredient:

• Sodium fluoride 0.05%, 0.02% w/v fluoride ion (anti-cavity rinse)
  

Inactive ingredients:

• Water
  
• sorbitol
  
• Menthol
  
• Methyl salicylate
  
• Flavor
  
• cetylpyridinium chloride
  
• sodium saccharin
  
• poloxamer 407
  
• polysorbate 20
  
• propylene glycol
  
• sodium phosphate
  
• disodium phosphate
  
• calcium disodium EDTA
  
• disodium EDTA
  
• sodium benzoate
  
• potassium sorbate
  
• benzyl alcohol
  
• green 3
  
• yellow 5
  

Benefits:

• Anticavity
  
• Alcohol-free
  
• Prevent cavities
  
• Mint flavor
  

2. Antiseptic mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwash stops bacterial growth thus preventing plaque buildup and is good for those who have mouth infections. It is also useful for those who have bad breath.

Following is the list of some of the Antiseptic mouthwashes.

A) CloSYS Sensitive Antimicrobial Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Purified Water
• Cloralstan (stabilized chlorine dioxide)
• Trisodium Phosphate
• Citric Acid
• Flavor
• Sucralose

Benefits:

• CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash is safe and with Flavor Control Dropper, add a little or a lot you’re in control and you have your own choice.
• Kills the germs for a noticeably clean and fresh mouth.
• Fresh and clean without pain and irritation.
• First, mouth rinse, which is awarded the ADA Seal for eliminating bad breath.
• Reduces plaque with brushing.
• Best for gum health.
• Ideal for a sensitive mouth.
• Naturally activated & pH balanced for sensitive and dry mouths; even soothes mouth sores.
• Contains Clorastan a naturally activated antimicrobial that kills harmful bacteria, leaving the good bacteria you need for exceptional oral health, without irritating the most sensitive mouths.
• Alcohol-free, Dye-free, Triclosan free, Sulfate-free, Gluten-free
• Antimicrobial

B) Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash

Active ingredients:

• Eucalyptol 0.092%
  
• Menthol 0.042%
  
• Methyl Salicylate 0.060%
  
• Thymol 0.064%
  

Inactive Ingredients:

• Water
  
• Alcohol (21.6%)
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Benzoic Acid
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Sodium Benzoate
  
• Flavor
  
• Green 3
  

Benefits:

• Kills germs that cause bad breath.
  
• The best Listerine for bad breath because of cool mint.
  
• Remove plaque.
  
• Kill gingivitis-causing bacteria.
  
• ADA Accepted.
  

C) Dr. Tichenors Antiseptic Mouthwash

Active Ingredients:

• Alcohol SD 38B (70%)

Inactive ingredients:

• Water
  
• Oil of Peppermint
  
• Arnica Montana (Montana Flower)

Benefits:

• Kill the germs.
  
• Help in healing mouth problems.
  
• Freshen the breath.
  

3. Cosmetic mouthwash

Cosmetic mouthwash is prepared to control bad breath and whiten the teeth.

List of best cosmetic mouthwashes:

A) Crest 3D White Glamorous White Multi-Care Whitening

Ingredients

• Water
  
• Glycerin
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Hydrogen Peroxide
  
• Sodium Hexametaphosphate
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Sodium Citrate
  
• Flavor
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Citric Acid
  

Benefits

• Exclusive Whitelock Technology helps protect against future stains.
  
• Triple-action** formula whitens by removing surface stains.
  
• Triple-action benefits: 1. Whitens teeth 2. Protects against surface stains 3. Kills bad breath germs.
  

B) JASON PowerSmile Brightening Peppermint Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Aqua
  
• Glycerin
  
• Polysorbate 20
  
• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
  
• Calendula Officinalis flower extract
  
• Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract
  
• Citrus Grandis (Grape Fruit) seed extract
  
• Echinacea Angustifolia Extract
  
• Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water
  
• Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal) Extract
  
• Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract
  
• Menthe Piperita (Peppermint) oil
  
• Ascorbic Acid
  
• Calcium Ascorbate
  
• Menthol
  
• Sea salt
  
• Sodium Bicarbonate
  
• Xylitol
  

Benefits:

• Freshen your breath and keep your smile bright, without harsh abrasives or irritating chemicals
  
• Whitens with Calcium Ascorbate and freshens breath with powerful Peppermint Oil and Menthol
  
• Grapefruit Seed and Perilla Seed Extracts reduce tartar build-up
  
• Aloe Vera soothes gum irritation
  
• No alcohol or saccharin
  

C) Colgate Optic White Whitening Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Water
  
• Glycerin
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Hydrogen Peroxide
  
• Polysorbate 20
  
• Sodium Acrylates/Methacryloylethyl Phosphate Copolymer
  
• Phosphoric Acid
  
• Citric Acid
  
• Flavor
  
• PVM/MA Copolymer
  
• Sodium Saccharin.
  

Benefits:

• High Impact Teeth Whitening Formula
  
• Hydrogen Peroxide High Impact Whitening Formula
  
• Prevent Future Stains
  
• Kills Bad Breath Germs and Bacteria
  
• Alcohol-Free Formula
  

4. Natural mouthwash

This mouthwash has natural ingredients that are plant-based and free of alcohol.

List of best natural mouthwashes:

A) Tom’s of Maine Natural Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Water
  
• Glycerin
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Aloe barbadensis leaf juice
  
• Propanediol
  
• Xylitol
  
• Natural flavor
  
• Benzoic acid
  
• Zinc citrate
  
• Menthol
  
• Sodium hydroxide
  

Benefits:

• This natural mouthwash is clinically proven to provide long-lasting fresh breath.
  
• Natural Mouthwash in Cool Mountain Mint flavor.
  
• No ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS.

• uses zinc, which neutralizes the odor caused by bad breath germs.
  
• This Toms natural mouthwash is fluoride-free and is never tested on animals.
  

B) Hello Super Fresh plus Moisturizing Hemp Seed Oil Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Purified water
  
• Vegetable glycerin (soothes and moisturizes)
  
• Xylitol (sweetener)
  
• Erythritol (sweetener)
  
• Polysorbate 80 (emulsifier)
  
• Flavor (freshens breath)
  
• Cannabis sativa (hemp) seed oil (soothes and moisturizes)
  
• Poloxamer 407 (emulsifier)
  
• Cocos nucifera (coconut) oil (soothes and moisturizes)
  
• Sodium benzoate (maintains stability)
  
• Stevia rebaudiana leaf extract (sweetener)
  
• And Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil (freshens breath) is certified organic.

Benefits:

• Naturally friendly hemp seed oil fluoride-free mouthwash.
  
• Moisturize and freshen your breath without the use of alcohol.
  
• Moisturizing and mind-blowing freshness up to 11.
  
• This hemp seed oil rinse is alcohol-free, fluoride-free, peroxide-free, dye-free, SLS-free, paraben-free, triclosan-free, and gluten-free.
  
• Contain no artificial sweeteners and no artificial flavors.
  

C) Spry Xylitol Oral Rinse, Spearmint

Ingredients:

• Purified Water
  
• Grain Alcohol (Ethanol)
  
• Spearmint Flavor (a blend of natural flavors)
  
• Vegetable Glycerin (from Non-GMO Palm Fruits)
  
• Calcium Glycerophosphate
  
• Aloe barbadensis juice concentrate (Aloe Vera)
  
• Calendula Officinalis (Marigold) flower extract
  
• Chamomila Recutita extract
  
• Echinacea Pupurea extract
  
• Olea Europea (Olive) leaf extract
  
• Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) extract
  

Benefits:

• A great-tasting fresh breath rinse designed to keep your mouth and teeth refreshingly clean.
  
• Made with xylitol (Xylitol sweetener is derived from the fibrous parts of plants).
  
• Help fight off cavities.
  
• Non-GMO ingredients.
  

5. Magic/Prescription mouthwash

The mouthwash which is prescribed by the dentist and is used to treat a condition like ulcers or inflamed tissues of the mouth. It is also called therapeutic mouthwash.

List of best prescription mouthwash:

A) Lumineux Clean & Fresh Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Organic barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice
  
• Xylitol
  
• Purified water (aqua)
  
• Dead sea salt (Maris sal)
  
• Gaultheria Procumbens (wintergreen) leaf oil
  
• Organic Menthe Piperita (Peppermint) leaf oil
  
• Menthe Viridis (spearmint) leaf oil
  
• Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) oil
  
• Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) flower oil
  

Benefits:

• Freshens Breath without Harsh Chemicals
  
• Alcohol-Free, Certified Non-Toxic, Sugar-Free, Dye Free, Preservative Free, BPA Free
  
• Supports Healthy Gum and Teeth
  
• It is designed to keep your oral tissues moist and pink using naturally derived ingredients that are Non-Toxic and Non-GMO.
  
• Dentist-Formulated & Recommended Mouthwash
  

B) Oral-B Mouth Sore Mouthwash Special Care Oral Rinse

Active Ingredients:

• Hydrogen Peroxide 1.5%

Inactive Ingredients:

• Citric Acid
  
• Flavor
  
• Glycerin
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Sodium Citrate
  
• Sodium Hexametaphosphate
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Sucralose
  
• Water
  
• Hydrogen Peroxide 1.5%.
  

Benefits:

• Specially formulated for mouth sores, including canker sores, cheek bites, braces & denture irritations, oral & gum irritations
  
• Cleanses oral wounds
  
• Free from alcohol, artificial dyes, parabens, gluten, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
  

C) GUM – Rincinol P.R.N. Alcohol-Free Mouth Sore Rinse

Ingredients:

• Water
  
• Sodium Hyaluronate
  
• Polyvinylpyrrolidone
  
• Glycyrrhetinic Acid
  
• Aloe Vera Extract
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Maltodextrin
  
• Potassium Sorbate
  
• Sodium Benzoate
  
• Hydroxyethylcellulose
  
• PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
  
• Disodium Edetate
  
• Benzalkonium Chloride
  
• Flavoring (Methylcyclopentenolone US CFR 21 172.515, GRAS)
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  

Benefits:

• This oral rinse provides gentle protection, healing, and pain relief from mouth sores.
  
• Its aloe vera-based formula helps promote the healing of aphthous ulcers, irritations from orthodontic appliances and removable dentures, and minor cuts and abrasions
  
• his specially formulated rinse creates a micro-thin, invisible, bio-adhesive protective barrier that shields sensitive nerve endings from irritants such as food, drinks, braces, or dentures.
  
• Provides fast and effective pain relief for up to 6 hours.
  
• This rinse does not contain benzocaine, which numbs the whole mouth, or alcohol, which stings on application.
  
• Easily applied by rinsing for 60 seconds with no stinging or burning sensation.
  
• Aloe vera gel soothes sores & promotes the healing process
  

6. Total care mouthwash

Total care mouthwash aims to strengthen the teeth, fight plaque, gum bleeding, gum inflammation, swelling, gingivitis, and bad breath.

List of best total care mouthwashes

A)   Total Care Alcohol-Free Anticavity Mouthwash

Active Ingredients:

• Sodium fluoride 0.02% (0.01% w/v fluoride ion) (anticavity)

Inactive Ingredients:

• Water
• Sorbitol
• propylene glycol
• poloxamer 407
• sodium lauryl sulfate
• flavor
• sodium benzoate
• phosphoric acid
• eucalyptol
• methyl salicylate
• thymol
• sodium saccharin
• menthol
• disodium phosphate
• sucralose
• red 40
• Blue 1

Benefits:

• Zero alcohol-free anticavity mouthwash in Fresh Mint flavor improves oral health by helping to prevent cavities, strengthening teeth, and leaving a refreshing, clean feeling
  
• Fluoride-rich mouthwash offers six benefits in one
  
• kill germs that cause bad breath
  
• strengthen teeth
  
• help prevent cavities
  
• restore enamel
  
• clean your mouth and freshen your breath
  

B) ACT Total Care Mouthwash

Active Ingredient:

• Sodium Fluoride 0.05% (0.02% w/v Fluoride Ion) – Anticavity.

Inactive Ingredients:

• Water
  
• Alcohol (11%)
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Sodium Benzoate
  
• Flavor
  
• Sodium Phosphate
  
• Cetylpyridinium Chloride
  
• Polysorbate 20
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Disodium Phosphate
  
• Calcium Disodium EDTA
  
• Blue 1.
  

Benefits:

• Strengthens Teeth
  
• Rebuilds Enamel
  
• Anti-Cavity fluoride rinse
  
• Kills Germs
• Prevents Plaque

C) Colgate Total Pro-Shield Alcohol-Free Mouthwash

Active Ingredient:

• Cetylpyridinium Chloride 0 075 Purpose Antigingivitis Antiplaque.

Inactive Ingredients:

• Water
  
• Glycerin
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Flavor
  
• Potassium Sorbate
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Citric Acid
  
• Sucralose
  
• FD amp C Green No 3
  
• FD amp C Yellow No 6
  

Benefits:

• Antibacterial Mouthwash Provides 12-hour protection against germs after eating and drinking
  
• Kills 99% of germs on contact
  
• Significantly reduces plaque
  
• Helps prevent gingivitis
  
• This is the mouthwash that doesn’t burn because of alcohol-free – no burn of alcohol (Does not contain ethanol)
  

7. Kids’ mouthwash

kids’ mouthwash shows the obvious meaning, mouthwash is specially prepared for kids.

List of best children’s mouthwash

A) Spry Kids Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Purified Water
• Xylitol
• Erythritol
• Vegetable Glycerin (from Non-GMO palm Fruits)
• Echinacea Purpurea
• Chamomile
• Olive Leaf
• Marigold
• Thyme
• Oat Beta Glucan
• Aloe Vera
• Calcium Glycerophosphate
• Cocamidopropyl Betaine
• Honeysuckle
• Natural Flavors
• Natural Plant Colors

Benefits:

• Alcohol-Free & Safe To Swallow
  
• Ensure your child has fresh breath and stays clean without the uncomfortable burn
  
• Made With Xylitol,  Xylitol is a natural sugar that tastes just like real sugar and is a great choice when looking for sweeteners and sugar alternatives
  
• Added calcium supports and strengthens tooth enamel while xylitol and special herbal blends improve overall oral health
  
• Helps to eliminate the buildup of bacterial biofilm.
  

B) ACT Kids Anti-Cavity Fluoride Rinse Bubblegum Blowout Children’s Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• Benzyl Alcohol
  
• Calcium Disodium Edta
  
• Cetylpyridinium Chloride
  
• Disodium Phosphate
  
• Flavor
  
• Poloxamer 407
  
• Polysorbate 80
  
• Propylene Glycol
  
• Red 33
  
• Sodium Benzoate
  
• Sodium Phosphate
  
• Sodium Saccharin
  
• Sorbitol
  
• Water (245-163)
  

Benefits:

• ACT Anticavity Fluoride Rinse comes in great-tasting flavors made just for kids
  
• Reduces cavities up to 40% more than brushing alone
  
• ACT Anticavity Kids formula provides maximum fluoride in a convenient 1-time-a-day formula
  
• ACT FRESHENS BREATH
  
• When you or a family member is in pain, sick, hurt, or just generally feeling under the weather, you don’t want to run to the pharmacy. A well-stocked home medicine cabinet helps ensure relief is at hand when you need it.
  

C) Crest Kid’s Anti-Cavity Alcohol-Free Fluoride Rinse

Ingredients:

• Sodium Fluoride 0.02% (0.01% W/V Fluoride Ion
• Water
• Propylene Glycol
• Polysorbate 80
• Benzoic Acid
• Flavor
• Sucralose
• Sodium Benzoate
• Phosphoric Acid
• Disodium Phosphate
• Red 33

Benefits:

• Alcohol-Free
• Mouthwash reaches where brushing may miss
• Anti-cavity fluoride mouthwash
• Fun Strawberry Rush flavor enjoyed by kids
• Designed for kids 6 and up

Conclusion/Summary

Some mouthwashes will burn your mouth and soft tissues which is due to the level of alcohol in them. The most asked question is “Why does Listerine burn my gums” and it is due to alcohol in it. There is alcohol-zero free is also available in the market.

Basically, mouthwashes are in fact for gums and teeth. In this article, most of the questions about mouthwashes have been explained, including the best mouthwash for gums and teeth and their types, and each category is given with the 3 best links for mouthwashes from Amazon which you can choose and use. If you have a question ask in the comment box and your suggestions will be highly welcomed.