Do I need to use a mouthwash?
Many people do not need one. Brushing and cleaning between the teeth come first, and a rinse may help some people, depending on what their mouth needs.
The short answer
Many people do not need a mouthwash. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth once a day, and says mouthwash may be a helpful addition to the daily routine for some people.
Ask your dentist whether a rinse would add anything for you.
Kinds of rinse, and what each is for
Fluoride rinse
The American Dental Association says rinses that contain fluoride help prevent or reduce tooth decay.
- Dentists sometimes suggest one to people who get cavities easily.
- The American Dental Association says a fluoride rinse may be helpful for people managing dry mouth.
- The American Dental Association says mouthwash is not recommended for children younger than 6 unless directed by a dentist.
Antiseptic rinse
Aimed at the bacteria in plaque and at gum inflammation.
- Dentists sometimes recommend one when the gums are inflamed.
- The American Dental Association says cetylpyridinium chloride and chlorhexidine may cause brown staining of teeth.
- Your dentist will tell you how long to use a prescription rinse.
Cosmetic rinse
Freshens the breath for a while.
- Covers bad breath without treating its cause.
- Choosing one is a matter of taste.
- Bad breath that does not go away needs a dental exam.
When to ask your dentist
Raise it at your next visit if you get cavities despite good brushing, if your mouth is often dry, if your gums bleed or are inflamed, or if you have bad breath that does not go away. A rinse is sometimes part of the answer to those, and sometimes the better answer is a treatment or a change in routine.
Bad breath often comes from bacteria on the tongue and between the teeth, from gum disease or from a dry mouth. A rinse can mask it, so ask the dentist to look for the cause.
If you do use one
Look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance on the label. Products with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance meet rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness, as evaluated by the ADA’s Council on Scientific Affairs. Some rinses contain alcohol, which can sting and dry the mouth in some people, and alcohol-free ones are widely sold.
Follow the label for when to use it in your routine. Spit it out, and keep it away from children who might swallow it.
Next step
If you are not sure whether a rinse would help you, ask at your next cleaning, or call the office.