Cetylpyridinium Chloride in Mouthwash: Is It Good for Teeth?

Key Takeaways

• Cetylpyridinium chloride, or CPC, is a chemical compound used as an active ingredient in many oral rinses for its antimicrobial properties.
• It reduces oral bacteria in your mouth, lowering your risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay.
• CPC is safe to use in therapeutic mouthwashes. You may experience light burning in your gums or a bitter taste after using it.
• Always consult your dentist to decide what oral hygiene products are right for you.

What is Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC)?

Cetylpyridinium chloride, also known as CPC or cetyl chloride, is a chemical compound used as an active ingredient in:

• Over-the-counter toothpaste
• Oral rinses
• Other oral hygiene products

It has antimicrobial properties that help prevent gum disease and remove dental plaque. It penetrates the cell membrane of bacteria, causing cell components to leak, eventually killing them.

What are the Types of Mouth Rinses?

There are two main categories of mouthwashes: cosmetic and therapeutic. Each offers its own specific set of benefits.

Cosmetic Mouthwash

Cosmetic mouthwashes typically focus on teeth whitening or breath freshening. They offer a short-term solution to minor esthetic complaints, like bad breath or a slimy mouthfeel.

They usually don’t contain microbial agents such as CPC, which benefit long-term oral hygiene.

Therapeutic Mouthwash

Therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients like CPC to prevent dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay.

Many studies have documented that CPC mouth rinses significantly reduce plaque and gingival inflammation compared to products that don’t contain it.¹¹ 

Many alcohol-free mouthwashes contain CPC as well. Alcohol-free CPC mouthwashes may not produce a burning sensation or a bitter taste after use.

How Should You Choose a Mouthwash?

Ask your dentist about using oral rinses in your dental hygiene routine. You may decide to use a mouthwash to control oral cavity bacteria or for cosmetic benefits. 

No matter what type of mouthwash your dentist recommends, following their directions and the prescription label is essential.

Oral mouthwash does not replace the need for daily flossing and brushing twice a day.

What Does Cetylpyridinium Chloride Do in Mouthwash?

Cetylpyridinium chloride is a beneficial antimicrobial ingredient in mouthwash.¹⁰ It works against the oral bacteria within dental plaque, which can decrease your risk of cavities.

Preventing the growth of bacteria also reduces your risk of developing gingivitis. Gingivitis leads to gum inflammation and bleeding in the oral cavity.

Using CPC-containing oral rinses ultimately helps you improve your overall oral health.

Are CPC Mouth Rinses Safe to Use? 

Yes, cetylpyridinium chloride is usually safe to use in oral health products. However, you may experience some mild side effects from using CPC mouthwash, such as burning in the gums.

Frequent use of mouthwashes containing cetylpyridinium chloride can lead to minor brown staining on the teeth and tongue, as well as around dental restorations. However, staining is more likely to occur from prescription mouthwashes, such as chlorhexidine. 

CPC is only toxic in doses of one gram or more of pure CPC. Mouthwashes contain low, non-toxic concentrations of CPC, making these products far more beneficial than harmful.