Mouthwash: Benefits, Types and How to Use It Correctly
Does mouthwash actually help? Learn the different types, which one suits your needs, how and when to use it, and common mistakes to avoid.
Medically reviewed by Doctoright Medical Review Panel · Written by Doctoright Editorial Team
Updated on · 2 min read
Key takeaways
- Mouthwash is an add on to brushing and cleaning between teeth, not a replacement.
- Fluoride rinses help prevent cavities; antiseptic rinses reduce plaque and gum inflammation; cosmetic rinses only freshen breath.
- Use mouthwash at a different time from brushing: rinsing straight after can wash away toothpaste fluoride.
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash is for short term use under a dentist's advice because it can stain teeth.
Swishing with mouthwash leaves your mouth feeling fresh, but does it actually make your teeth and gums healthier? It depends on the type you choose and how you use it.
Types of mouthwash
Cosmetic mouthwash
Masks bad breath for a short time and leaves a pleasant taste. It doesn't kill the bacteria that cause plaque or gum disease.
Therapeutic mouthwash
Contains active ingredients that do more:
- Fluoride: strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. Useful if you're prone to decay, wear braces or have a dry mouth.
- Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and essential oils: reduce plaque and mild gum inflammation (gingivitis).
- Chlorhexidine: a strong antiseptic prescribed by dentists for short periods, such as after gum treatment or oral surgery. Long term use can stain teeth brown and change taste.
- Potassium nitrate: eases tooth sensitivity.
Benefits
Used correctly, a therapeutic mouthwash can:
- reduce plaque and gingivitis
- help prevent cavities (fluoride rinses)
- freshen breath
- reach areas a toothbrush might miss
How to use mouthwash
- Choose the right time. Use it at a different time from brushing (for example after lunch) so you don't rinse away the fluoride from your toothpaste.
- Measure the dose on the label, usually 10 to 20 ml.
- Swish for 30 to 60 seconds, moving it between your teeth, then gargle briefly if the label suggests.
- Spit it out: never swallow mouthwash.
- Don't eat, drink or rinse with water for 30 minutes afterwards.
Common mistakes
- Using mouthwash instead of brushing. It can't remove plaque on its own: see how to brush properly.
- Using chlorhexidine long term without a dentist's advice.
- Giving mouthwash to young children. Most aren't suitable under age 6, because children may swallow them.
- Masking a problem. Persistent bad breath can signal gum disease, tooth decay, sinus problems, acid reflux or uncontrolled diabetes.
Alcohol free or not?
Alcohol free mouthwashes are gentler and better for people with a dry mouth, sensitive gums or who avoid alcohol. Evidence linking alcohol containing mouthwash to oral cancer is inconclusive, but alcohol free versions are a sensible choice for daily use.
What about oil pulling?
Swishing sesame or coconut oil (oil pulling) is a traditional practice. Small studies suggest it may reduce plaque and bad breath, but it doesn't replace brushing, flossing or fluoride.
The bottom line
Mouthwash is a useful extra, not a shortcut. Pick a therapeutic rinse matched to your needs, use it at a separate time from brushing, and keep up regular dental checkups.
How we reviewed this article: 3 sources
Doctoright has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer reviewed studies, academic research institutions and medical associations. Learn more.
- American Dental Association. Mouthrinse (mouthwash).
- NHS. How to keep your teeth clean.
- World Health Organization. Oral health fact sheet.
Last medically reviewed on 14 September 2026. Originally published 6 August 2026.