Mouthwash
Introduction
While not a replacement for daily toothbrushing and flossing, use of mouthwash (also called mouth rinse) may be a helpful addition to the daily oral hygiene routine for some people.
- Children younger than the age of 6 should not use mouthwash, unless directed by a dentist because they may swallow large amounts of the liquid inadvertently.
Types
Broadly speaking, there are 2 types of mouthwashes.
- Cosmetic mouthwashes may temporarily control bad breath and leave behind a pleasant taste, but have no chemical or biological application beyond their temporary benefit.
- Therapeutic mouthwashes can help reduce or control plaque, gingivitis, bad breath and tooth decay.
Active Ingredients in Therapeutic Mouthwash
Cetylpyridinium chloride
- Antimicrobial action.
- Reduce bad breath, plaque and gingivitis.
- May cause brown staining of teeth, tongue and/or restorations.
- Treatment of gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Prevent alveolar osteitis (dry sockets) after a tooth extraction.
- Potential adverse reactions include staining of teeth, dentures, and tongue, as well as altered taste.
Essential oils such as eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, methyl salicylate
- Reduce bad breath, plaque and gingivitis.
- May be a potential allergen or irritant for some patients.
Fluoride
- Prevent tooth decay.
Hexetidine
- Bactericidal and fungicidal antiseptic.
- 0.1% mouthwash for local infections and oral hygiene.
Peroxide
- Tooth whitening.
Povidone-iodine
- 1% mouthwash has been used for oral infections including candidiasis.
- Can cause hypersensitivity reactions and irritation of the skin and mucous membrane, although severe reactions are rare.
Alcohol Content in Mouthwashes
Alcohol consumption is a risk factor for oral cancers, although studies have not demonstrated an association between mouthwash use and oral cancer.
Since alcohol may also worsen xerostomia, alcohol-containing mouthwashes should be avoided in patients experiencing xerostomia.
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