Mouth Ninja

7 Best Antiseptic Mouthwashes (2024): Kill Germs & Prevent Infection

Maintaining oral hygiene is an essential part of our daily routine. Brushing and flossing are the most common ways to keep your mouth clean.

However, using an antiseptic mouthwash can provide additional protection against harmful bacteria and promote fresh breath.

Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash
  • Mouth rinses cleanses and promotes healing of minor oral wounds
  • Helps promote healing of: oral sores, irritations, mouth burns
  • Oxygenating action removes oral debris to facilitate healing
  • Soothes minor gum inflammation from dental procedures, dentures
  • Antiseptic mouthwash, alcohol free formula
Listerine Ultraclean Antiseptic Mouthwash
  • Kills 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque & gingivitis & provides up to 3x longer lasting clean feeling versus brushing alone
  • Tartar control mouthwash
  • Daily oral rinse helps to achieve 4x healthier gums in 3 weeks
Crest Pro-Health Clinical Mouthwash
  • Antigingivitis
  • Antiplaque
  • Prevents Gingivitis
  • Kills 99% Of Germs

In this article, we will review the 7 best antiseptic mouthwashes on the market and provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right product for your needs.

1. Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash

Listerine is a well-known brand that has been in the market for decades. It is known for its powerful formula that kills 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gum disease. It contains essential oils like eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol that give a refreshing sensation to the mouth.

Pros:

  • Effective against bad breath, plaque, and gum disease
  • Refreshing sensation
  • Long-lasting protection

Cons:

  • Contains alcohol, which can cause a burning sensation in some people

2. Crest Pro-Health Clinical Mouthwash

Crest Pro-Health Clinical Mouthwash is another popular brand that offers effective protection against plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath. It contains CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride), which is a clinically proven ingredient to fight against harmful bacteria.

Pros:

  • Clinically proven to fight against harmful bacteria
  • Freshens breath
  • Alcohol-free

Cons:

  • Some users may experience a burning sensation in their mouth

3. Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash

Colgate Peroxyl mouthwash is a mouthwash that not only provides protection against harmful bacteria but also strengthens teeth by providing fluoride. It is effective against cavities and helps to remineralize tooth enamel.

Pros:

  • Provides protection against cavities
  • Strengthens teeth by providing fluoride
  • Freshens breath

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for people with fluoride sensitivity

4. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse

TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse is a vegan and gluten-free mouthwash that is effective against bad breath. It contains a powerful formula that neutralizes sulfur-producing bacteria, the primary cause of bad breath.

Pros:

  • Effective against bad breath
  • Vegan and gluten-free
  • Does not contain alcohol or artificial flavors

Cons:

  • Some users may find the taste too strong

5. Colgate Total Pro-Shield Mouthwash

Colgate Total Pro-Shield Mouthwash is another popular brand that offers protection against harmful bacteria and bad breath. It contains CPC and fluoride that work together to provide complete protection against germs that cause gum disease and cavities.

Pros:

  • Provides complete protection against harmful bacteria
  • Freshens breath
  • Alcohol-free

Cons:

  • May cause staining of teeth in some people

6. Peridex Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthwash

Peridex Chlorhexidine Gluconate Mouthwash is a prescription mouthwash that is recommended by dentists for the treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis. It contains chlorhexidine gluconate, which is a powerful antiseptic that kills bacteria and prevents the formation of plaque.

Pros:

  • Recommended by dentists for the treatment of gum diseases
  • Effective against harmful bacteria and plaque
  • Provides long-lasting protection

Cons:

  • Requires a prescription to purchase
  • May cause staining of teeth and tongue

7. Closys Oral Rinse

Closys Oral Rinse is a gentle and non-burning mouthwash that is effective against bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay. It contains chlorine dioxide, which is a powerful oxidizing agent that kills bacteria and neutralizes odors. It is also pH balanced, making it suitable for people with sensitive teeth and gums.

Pros:

  • Gentle and non-burning
  • Effective against bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay
  • pH balanced, suitable for people with sensitive teeth and gums

Cons:

  • Some users may find the taste too strong

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing An Antiseptic Mouthwash

When choosing an antiseptic mouthwash, here are some factors to consider:

  1. Effectiveness: Look for mouthwashes that are clinically proven to be effective against harmful bacteria, plaque, and gum disease.
  2. Ingredients: Choose mouthwashes that contain essential oils, fluoride, or other ingredients that provide protection and promote oral health.
  3. Taste: Some mouthwashes have a strong taste that may not be suitable for everyone. Look for mouthwashes with a taste that you find pleasant.
  4. Alcohol content: Mouthwashes that contain alcohol may cause a burning sensation in some people. If you have sensitive gums, look for an alcohol-free mouthwash.
  5. Prescription vs. Over-the-counter: Some mouthwashes require a prescription from a dentist or doctor. If you have gum disease or other oral health issues, your dentist may recommend a prescription mouthwash.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using an antiseptic mouthwash can be a beneficial addition to your daily oral hygiene routine. It provides additional protection against harmful bacteria and promotes fresh breath.

When choosing a mouthwash, it is important to consider its effectiveness, ingredients, taste, alcohol content, and whether it requires a prescription. Always follow the instructions on the label and consult with your dentist if you have any concerns.

Remember that while antiseptic mouthwash is helpful, it should not replace brushing and flossing as they are essential for maintaining good oral health.

FAQ

What is antiseptic mouthwash, and how does it work?

Antiseptic mouthwash is a type of oral rinse that contains ingredients that kill bacteria and prevent the formation of plaque. It works by attacking the harmful bacteria in the mouth and reducing the number of germs that cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Is antiseptic mouthwash better than regular mouthwash?

Antiseptic mouthwash is more effective than regular mouthwash in killing harmful bacteria and preventing gum disease and tooth decay. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, as some people may have an adverse reaction to the active ingredients.

How often should I use antiseptic mouthwash?

It is recommended to use antiseptic mouthwash twice a day, after brushing and flossing. However, you should follow the instructions on the label and consult with your dentist if you have any concerns.

Can antiseptic mouthwash cause side effects?

Some people may experience side effects such as a burning or stinging sensation in the mouth, dry mouth, or a change in taste. If you experience any side effects, stop using the mouthwash and consult with your dentist.

Can antiseptic mouthwash replace brushing and flossing?

Antiseptic mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. It is a supplementary step to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing are still essential to remove plaque and food particles from the teeth and gums.

Can children use antiseptic mouthwash?

Some antiseptic mouthwashes are not suitable for children under the age of six, as they may swallow the mouthwash accidentally. Always check the label and consult with your child’s dentist before using any oral rinse.

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Kate Colley
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