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Dentists recommend mouthwash as part of a complete at-home oral health routine.
But there are hundreds of different options. And most of them have ingredients that the average person will never recognize.
This article will clear up the differences between antibacterial, antiseptic, and antimicrobial mouthwashes. We’ll also provide our evidence-based recommendations on the best over-the-counter (OTC) antibacterial mouthwashes.
Everything We Recommend
Best for Bad Breath — Crest Pro-Health Intense Mouthwash with CPC
Best for Bad Breath (Alcohol-Free) — CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash
Best for Plaque and Gingivitis — TheraBreath Healthy Gums
First, the American Dental Association (ADA) states that there are two main types of mouthwash:
Cosmetic mouthwashes are meant to temporarily reduce bad breath and leave a pleasant taste in your mouth. But they don’t address any other issues.
Therapeutic mouthwashes help reduce or control plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and/or tooth decay.
According to Dr. Khushbu Aggarwal, one of NewMouth’s in-house dentists, therapeutic mouthwashes can be classified as antibacterial, antiseptic, or antimicrobial.
Antibacterial (antibiotic) mouthwashes target specific bacteria. They are usually used to help fight active infections, such as gingivitis. Antibacterial mouthwashes work by reducing the number of bacteria in the mouth.
In contrast, antiseptic and antimicrobial mouthwashes target a variety of microbes, says Dr. Aggarwal. These products attack spores, fungi, and viruses, in addition to bacteria. They are usually used to reduce the risk of infection after a dental procedure.
Antibacterial or antibiotic agents slow, kill, or inactivate specific types of bacteria. They are used to treat active infections in your body.
Antibacterial mouthwash can target the bacteria that cause gingivitis.
In order to be effective, antibacterial mouthwashes must be used in addition to brushing and flossing.
Antibacterial mouthwash is available over-the-counter and via prescription.
Here are three of the best antibacterial mouthwashes available:
This product has not received the ADA seal of approval, but is an antibacterial mouthrinse that contains cetylpyridinium chloride, which is known to help combat bad breath.
This product has the ADA seal of acceptance, meaning that it has been scientifically evaluated by independent experts to be safe and effective.
According to Dr. Aggarwal, it also contains chlorine dioxide, which is known to help combat bad breath. The product is also alcohol free, so it is less likely to cause a burning sensation and/or dry out the mouth.
This product has not received the ADA seal of acceptance. However, it is an antibacterial mouthrinse that contains cetylpyridinium chloride, which is known to help combat bad breath, says Dr. Aggarwal.
Your dentist can help determine the best type of mouthwash for you based on your oral health. Ask them for recommendations at one of your check-ups and cleanings.
It is important to visit your dentist immediately if you have foul breath, gum pain, or heavy plaque buildup.
The active ingredients you want in your mouthwash depend on the cause of your condition.
See your dentist for the best and most personalized mouthwash recommendation.
Here are common ingredients in antibacterial mouthwashes used to treat specific conditions.
The combination of chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, and zinc lactate can reduce bad breath. But long-term use can stain the teeth, tongue, and dental restorations.
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