Mouthwash is a common addition to daily oral hygiene, but many people wonder – is it necessary, how much does it help, and should it be used every day? In this article, we provide expert dental recommendations and explain when and how to use mouthwash properly.
What is mouthwash?
Mouthwash is a liquid used to rinse the oral cavity, most commonly to freshen breath, reduce bacteria, prevent cavities, and reduce gum inflammation. There are many types of mouthwash on the market – with or without alcohol, with fluoride, antiseptic, herbal, for sensitive gums, and other specialised formulas.
What are the benefits of using mouthwash?
Mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing, but it can be a valuable addition to your oral routine. Here’s how it can help:
- Reduces the amount of bacteria in the mouth, helping to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis
- Freshens breath, especially for people suffering from halitosis (bad breath)
- Helps prevent cavities if it contains fluoride
- Promotes a sense of cleanliness and freshness after meals or between brushings
- Soothes irritation for patients with inflammation, canker sores, or post-dental procedures (depending on the ingredients)
What do today’s dentists say?
According to recommendations from the American Dental Association (ADA) and published studies in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, mouthwashes can be an effective addition to oral hygiene, especially in controlling gingivitis and reducing plaque. However, they emphasise that mouthwash cannot replace thorough brushing and flossing. Dentists usually recommend mouthwash use based on individual needs, depending on the state of the mouth, the presence of gum disease, the need for additional protection, and patient habits.
When can mouthwash be helpful?
Dentists recommend using mouthwash in the following situations:
- For sensitive or inflamed gums, with antiseptic mouthwashes to reduce inflammation
- After procedures like tooth extraction or root planing, when brushing is not advised
- For people prone to cavities (fluoride mouthwashes)
- In cases of bad breath caused by oral bacteria
- For people with braces, maintaining hygiene with a brush alone is difficult
Is daily use necessary?
Daily use of mouthwash is not necessary unless specifically recommended by a dentist. In some cases, overuse – especially of alcohol-based mouthwashes – can cause:
- Dry mouth
- Mucosal irritation
- Changes in the balance of the oral microbiome
That’s why it’s important to choose a mouthwash that suits your needs – e.g., alcohol-free formulas for people with sensitive mouths.
How do you know when to stop using it?
If you notice burning, redness, dryness, taste changes, or discomfort after using mouthwash, it may be a sign that the product is not suitable for your mouth. Reactions are especially common with mouthwashes that contain alcohol or strong antiseptics. In such cases, it is recommended to stop using it and consult a dentist, who can suggest an alternative product or check for underlying sensitivity issues such as irritation, fungal infections, or allergic reactions.
Can children use mouthwash, and what age is recommended?
Mouthwashes are generally not recommended for children under 6 years old due to the risk of swallowing. After that age, with parental supervision and proper instruction, children can use child-specific mouthwashes with mild ingredients (alcohol-free, low fluoride content). Before using, children should be able to rinse and spit without swallowing. Dentists advise introducing mouthwash only if there is a clear need – e.g., increased risk of cavities, orthodontic therapy, or specific advice from a pediatric dental specialist.
Mouthwash use for older adults (without natural teeth)
Older adults, especially those wearing full or partial dentures, can also benefit from using mouthwash. These mouthwashes can help:
- Reduce the number of microorganisms on the mucosa
- Alleviate dry mouth (xerostomia), common in older age due to medication use
- Improve the feeling of freshness and comfort
- Prevent fungal infections (e.g., candidiasis) in denture wearers
Alcohol-free, moisturising mouthwashes are recommended, and in case of specific issues, medical-grade formulas may be used under dentist supervision.
Who is mouthwash especially recommended for?
Mouthwash can be helpful for nearly all age groups, but it is especially recommended for:
1. Adolescents and young adults
- This group is often undergoing orthodontic treatment (braces), which makes oral hygiene harder to maintain with a brush alone
- Mouthwash helps reduce plaque buildup and prevent gingivitis in hard-to-reach areas
2. Adults in midlife
- When early signs of gum changes appear (e.g., gum recession) and the risk of periodontitis increases
- Mouthwashes with antiseptic or anti-inflammatory effects can help stabilise the condition
3. Older adults (with or without teeth)
- For frequent dry mouth, medication use, reduced motor ability, or denture use
- Hydrating and alcohol-free mouthwashes can reduce discomfort and lower infection risk
In conclusion, while mouthwash can be used during different life stages, its purpose and effect depend on the needs of each age group. The greatest benefit is seen among adolescents with braces and older adults with dentures or dry mouth.
Medicinal mouthwashes
Medicinal mouthwashes, such as those containing chlorhexidine, are used for serious conditions like periodontitis, post-surgery, or after tooth extraction, and during phases of intense gum inflammation. These mouthwashes have a strong antiseptic effect, but are not recommended for long-term use as they may cause tooth staining, taste disturbances, and disruption of oral microflora. They are used strictly under dental supervision and for a limited period (usually 7–14 days).
Alternative homemade mouthwash solutions
For people who prefer natural alternatives or want to avoid commercial ingredients, it is possible to use homemade mouth rinses. Some of the most common include:
- Salt water has anti-inflammatory effects and helps with irritation and minor wounds
- Baking soda: neutralises acids and helps maintain pH balance
- Sage or chamomile tea: natural antiseptic properties, good for soothing gums
- Diluted apple cider vinegar may have antibacterial effects, but should be used with caution as it can irritate the mucosa
While these home remedies can have a beneficial effect, they do not contain active ingredients like fluoride or chlorhexidine, so they should be used as a supplement, not a replacement, for therapeutic or preventive mouthwashes.
How to use mouthwash correctly?
- Use after brushing, not as a substitute for brushing
- Do not rinse your mouth with water immediately after using mouthwash, as this reduces the effectiveness of the active ingredients
- Do not swallow – mouthwashes are not meant to be ingested
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on amount and duration (usually 30 seconds)
Final recommendation
Mouthwash has its place in modern oral hygiene, but it’s important to understand its role – it cannot replace mechanical cleaning with a brush and floss, but it can contribute to fresh breath, plaque control, and gum health, especially for people with special needs or after certain dental procedures.
When choosing a mouthwash, pay attention to the ingredients, indications, age suitability, and potential limitations, especially for children and older adults. Also, keep in mind that even natural remedies can have side effects if used improperly.
As with all other oral treatments, the best results come from an individualised approach. That’s why it is advisable to regularly consult with a dental professional who can guide you on whether and how to include mouthwash in your oral care routine.