While brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing remain essential elements of a solid oral hygiene routine, mouthwash is considered more of an enhancement than a necessity. Dr. Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend, emphasizes that mouthwash should complement brushing and flossing rather than replace them. “It delivers targeted ingredients to your teeth, gums, and other oral surfaces, providing benefits such as freshening breath, preventing cavities, and protecting against gum disease,” he explains.
Although anyone can incorporate mouthwash into their routine, it’s crucial to select the right product for your specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of how to make an informed choice when shopping for mouthwash, as well as a roundup of top recommendations from trusted brands like Act, Colgate, and Listerine.
Key Considerations for Choosing Mouthwash
ADA Seal of Acceptance: Look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance on the label. This seal indicates that the product has undergone testing for safety and effectiveness, meeting high standards. While products without the seal can still be effective, the seal ensures thorough evaluation.
Therapeutic vs. Cosmetic: Mouthwashes fall into two categories: therapeutic and cosmetic. Therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients designed to address oral issues such as gum disease, plaque, tooth decay, and dry mouth. On the other hand, cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily mask bad breath without addressing the root causes. It’s essential to consider your needs and consult with your dentist to determine which type of mouthwash is best for you.
Active Ingredients: Therapeutic mouthwashes contain ingredients tailored to specific dental concerns. For example, fluoride strengthens enamel and prevents cavities, while essential oils like menthol and thymol help reduce plaque and freshen breath. Additionally, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) targets bacteria to combat bad breath and plaque. Cosmetic options, like TheraBreath’s Fresh Breath Oral Rinse, primarily use potent flavorings to temporarily freshen breath.
Alcohol Content: Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which helps kill germs but can also dry out the mouth. If you’re prone to dry mouth or have sensitive gums, it’s best to avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes. Additionally, children should use alcohol-free mouthwashes to prevent accidental ingestion.
Flavor Preferences: Mouthwashes come in various flavors, including mint, fruity, and herbal. Finding a flavor you enjoy is key to using mouthwash consistently. Expect some trial and error to discover what works best for your palate.
Top Mouthwashes of 2025
To help you make an informed choice, here are some ADA-approved, alcohol-free mouthwashes that stand out in the market today.
Colgate Total Clean Mint Fluoride Mouthwash This fluoride mouthwash has been a trusted recommendation for years, offering cavity protection, enamel strengthening, and fresh breath. Its mint flavor is refreshing without being overwhelming. The bottle includes a convenient built-in dosage cup for easy measuring, ensuring that you apply the right amount. After using this mouthwash, it’s recommended to wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking for optimal fluoride action. NBC Select’s Bianca Alvarez notes, “It leaves my mouth feeling cleaner overall and my breath fresher.”
Listerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash Listerine’s fluoride mouthwash is effective in strengthening enamel, preventing cavities, and freshening breath. With a mild taste, it provides long-lasting protection, and, like other fluoride-based products, it’s best to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after use.
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse Ideal for those with sensitive gums, TheraBreath offers a gentle formula that won’t sting, making it a favorite of NBC Select’s Cory Fernandez. This mouthwash targets odor-causing bacteria and provides fresh breath for up to 24 hours when used twice daily. TheraBreath also offers a range of mild flavors, making it easy to find a taste you enjoy.
When choosing the right mouthwash, it’s important to factor in your personal oral health needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize cavity protection, breath freshening, or plaque control, there’s a mouthwash tailored to help you achieve your goals.
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