The most effective ingredient for killing bacteria is chlorhexidine (CHX) which is found in brands such as Savacol and Kin Gingival. Over-the-counter mouthwashes containing essential oils, such as Listerine, have also been clinically proven to kill a high percentage of bacteria.
According to many studies that have been conducted on the effects of mouthwashes on oral microorganisms (17, 18), the chlorhexidine mouthwash is the most superior amongst all mouthwashes.
Crest® PRO-HEALTH® Multi-Protection Mouthwash, kills 99% of the bacteria that cause gingivitis. Floss at least once a day. Oral-B Glide® PRO-HEALTH® Clinical Protection Floss, slides easily between teeth and below the gum-line to remove gingivitis-causing plaque. Be sure to fully remove plaque.
Who can use chlorhexidine. Most adults and children can use chlorhexidine skin treatments. Chlorhexidine throat spray, lozenges and dental treatments (such as mouthwash and dental gel) can be used by adults and children aged 12 years or over.
Three of our dentists gave Listerine Total Care Zero an alcohol-free thumbs up when it comes to good gum care. “It's a good alcohol-free rinse that helps reduce bacteria and supports tissue healing,” says Dr. Manuele.
Dentists often don't recommend routine mouthwash because it can disrupt beneficial oral bacteria, cause dry mouth (especially alcohol-based types), mask underlying issues like bad breath, and potentially lead to tooth staining or taste changes, with brushing and flossing remaining the core of good oral hygiene, though prescribed rinses can be useful for specific, short-term conditions.
Top Mouthwash Options That Help Prevent Cavities
Chlorhexidine may cause staining and an increase in tartar (calculus) on your teeth. Brushing with a tartar-control toothpaste and flossing your teeth daily may help reduce this tartar build-up and staining.
Essential Oils: Products containing essential oils, such as thyme, clove, and peppermint, have been used due to their natural antimicrobial properties. They are often found in natural mouthwashes and can reduce plaque without the side effects associated with chlorhexidine.
Chlorhexidine Brand names: Corsodyl, Covonia, Dermol, Germolene, Savlon.
Here are some effective tips to help you get rid of gingivitis quickly and restore your oral health.
Are TheraBreath products suitable for use when pregnant or breastfeeding? Yes. TheraBreath is safe for use if you are pregnant or breatfeeding. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinses do not contain alcohol.
Certain antibiotics (streptomycin, kanamycin, tetracycline) are best avoided entirely in pregnancy because of their teratogenicity. Wherever possible, single-agent therapy is preferred over polypharmacy.
Certain Oils
Oils such as eucalyptol, menthol, and tea tree, can help kill harmful bacteria in your mouth. This keeps your gums from getting inflamed. It's for this reason you'll often find these ingredients in toothpaste and mouthwash.
Here is a list of the best mouthwashes for gingivitis:
Treatment Details
In addition, tea tree oil and aloe vera are also natural products with antiseptic properties, making them useful as mouthwashes. They are considered safe when used correctly and can reduce plaque and gingivitis.
Conclusion. The 5.8% saline has a similar efficacy to the commonly prescribed 0.1% Chlorhexidine. Homemade saline can be prescribed for short term indications as it has an antibacterial action that lasts for 3 h. Saline 23% should be avoided because of its pungent and irritating taste.
Conclusion. After 3 weeks of use, both types of mouthwash reduced gingival inflammation, but Chlorhexidine mouthwash showed a higher increase in micronuclei and micronucleated cells compared to Listerine. This suggests greater cytotoxicity with Chlorhexidine mouthwash.
Front tooth fillings, dentures or other mouth appliances, especially those having rough surfaces. Other gum or dental problems. An unusual or allergic reaction to chlorhexidine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Four of 52 CBA plates tested were positive for bacterial growth (Table 1). Each of the four positive cultures came from different chlorhexidine solution bottles and grew a different species of bacteria.
Whether prolonged exposure over many years may have carcinogenic potential is still not clear. The US Food and Drug Administration recommendation is to limit the use of a chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash to a maximum of six months.
CloSYS Silver is a great choice for an oral rinse product for elderly patients because it is mild and gentle on the teeth and gums, yet still effective at removing plaque and bacteria. It is also safe for use by patients with dementia. The importance of using an oral rinse cannot be overstated.
The 2-2-2 rule in dentistry is a simple guideline for good oral hygiene: brush twice a day, for two minutes each time, and visit your dentist twice a year, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems by establishing consistent habits for plaque removal and professional monitoring.
Listerine Total Care Zero Alcohol Anticavity Mouthwash.