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6 Best Mouthwash Brands

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Who loves the smell of morning breath? Um, no one. 

Bad breath is one reason people turn towards mouthwash. But that’s not the only reason. Some use mouthwash for teeth whitening, while others need a little extra help battling gingivitis.

Even if you’ve heard that dentists don’t recommend mouthwash, they most certainly do. It’s just that they won’t suggest using it as a replacement for other oral hygiene habits.

Consider Your Mouthwash Carefully!

We’ve spent weeks researching and testing different rinses to find the best mouthwash brands out there.

We’ve included those with and without fluoride and alcohol, those that are safe for children, those beneficial for different mouth conditions, and, yes, one that does a fantastic job at whitening your teeth. 

#1 Best Overall Mouthwash

ACT Cool Splash Mint Mouthwash

  • Recommended by dentists
  • Expect stronger, more polished surface enamel (no more soft spots)
  • Fights gingivitis and bad breath

Pros

This minty mouthwash does a lot more than simply fight bad breath. It actively works to restore minerals to soft spots. Plus, the added strength prevents tooth decay.

Product Ratings

Features

9.5/10

What does it claim to do? This mouthwash claims to strengthen tooth enamel. It also says it can reduce cavities up to 70 percent more than simply brushing with a fluoride toothpaste.

Does it do it? Most users report a reduction in noticeable soft spots. That’s a good thing. But, let’s be real; it’s not going to ever deposit enough minerals to fill real holes. If you have those, you will need to get to the dentist.

Is it good at anything else? It doesn’t do a bad job of fighting bad breath. That’s a bonus most people seriously appreciate.

Who’s it for? Adults looking to fight cavities will enjoy having this in their bathroom. It’s far too strong for kids, though.

What’s inside the bottle? Fluoride is the work horse in this bottle; there is some variation between bottle sizes, so you’ll want to make sure you know what you’re getting. The smaller bottle is the one with the greater fluoride composition.

What’s it taste like? This is the sort of standard, minty flavor you’ve come to expect from a mouthwash.

Usage

9.5/10

Use it once a day after brushing your teeth. Some dentists recommend using it just before bed for a little extra push. (However, if you opt for the larger bottle, you can use it twice as the fluoride content is reduced.) Want to know more about what’s inside a particular mouthwash before buying? You can see what the people over at Livestrong have to say, though you’ll find a more comprehensive breakdown of ingredients at Just4Teeth.com.

Value

9.5/10

You’ll pay about $25 for a pack of four bottles. Each bottle holds 18 ounces, so the cost per ounce is less than 40 cents. That’s not bad at all – especially if, like most users, you gain all the benefits you expect.

Overall Editor Score

9.5/10

This is clearly the best mouthwash to have when you’re serious about dental care – even if it doesn’t carry a little sticker with ADA endorsement. The formula is meant to strengthen tooth enamel, and it does that well, by most accounts.

If you’re expecting miracles from this Sodium Fluoride formula, you should probably consider adjusting your expectations. But, if you expect positive results after continued usage, you’ve come to the right place. And, although the big push isn’t on breath, you should expect minty freshness.

The only thing we would change if we could have nothing to do with the mouthwash itself. We’d love to see it on the Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry lists. But, maybe one day soon…

Available on Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry? Sadly, no. And that’s one of the biggest downfalls. You’ll need to pay close attention to when you’re close to the end of your last bottle.

 

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#2 Best Mouthwash for Bad Breath and Halitosis

TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse

  • Refreshingly clean taste
  • Lasts for hours
  • Effective without irritating your mouth

Pros

This is far and away the best mouthwash for bad breath – well, for destroying it anyhow. It neutralizes the sulfur-producing bacteria that causes morning breath and nasty food smells. It works fast and is doctor recommended.  

Product Ratings

Features

9.5/10

What does it claim to do? The label on this bottle says it destroys bad breath and food odors. It’s also said to alleviate symptoms of dry mouth.

Does it do it? As far as the bad breath goes, you won’t want for anything – at least not as far as most users are concerned. The dry mouth is a little more touch and go, but not bad.

Is it good at anything else? You can expect anything with this much bad-breath-fighting strength to kill off other types of nasty bacteria that have nothing to do with bad breath.

Who’s it for? Most children don’t have bad breath, and you’ll have no reason to give this to them. And, let’s be honest, if you don’t battle bad breath regularly, you probably have no reason to invest in this either.

What’s inside the bottle? The active ingredient in TheraBreath products is OXYD-8TM. That won’t make any sense to most users. All you need to know is that it prevents anaerobic bacteria from creating odorous sulfide in your mouth.

What’s it taste like? It’s minty, and there are those that can’t stand the actual flavor. But, it’s not designed to be overpowering.

Usage

9.5/10

You’ll find instructions on the packaging. But, for simplicity’s sake, we’ll tell you that you’re meant to rinse with this twice a day after brushing your teeth. The formula works for about 12 hours in your mouth.

Value

9.5/10

For $15, you’ll get two bottles each with 16 ounces of antibacterial mouthwash. That’s less than 50 cents per ounce. And, if you have halitosis, you will understand that it’s worth it.

Overall Editor Score

9.5/10

You’ll battle to find something you don’t like about this mouthwash, especially if you struggle with bad breath. It’s an Amazon Best Seller for a reason. It’s also alcohol-free and doesn’t have any artificial flavors or colors. In case you’re wondering, this mouthwash is certified vegan and kosher, not to mention gluten-free. More importantly, it works brilliantly. Keep reading to find out exactly how it does just that.

Available on Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry? You can put this on your Subscribe and Save list for Amazon discounts. We support that!

 

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#3 Best Mouthwash for Dry Mouth and Oral Irritations

Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse

  • Minimizes dry mouth and other such issues
  • Tastes remarkably good
  • Recommended by dentists (and who doesn’t like that?)

Pros

This super antibacterial mouthwash offers serious benefits to those that suffer from dry mouth (whatever the reason). It’s also fantastic at fighting irritating mouth sores.

Product Ratings

Features

9.5/10

What does it claim to do? If you need a mouthwash that helps you cope with dry mouth, this is the one you want. It provides immediate relief – as long as you have a bottle of it handy. More, it lasts up to four hours; that’s a big help on presentation day.

Does it do it? Most people find this to be a very effective formula.

Is it good at anything else? It’s not so bad at relieving bad breath either. We like that.

Who’s it for? This isn’t exclusively for adults, though most children aren’t likely to need such a formula. If they do, we recommend consulting your dentist before use. If you regularly suffer from dry mouth, get yourself a bottle; users undergoing chemotherapy recommend it as part of their regular dental care.

What’s inside the bottle? There are four antibacterial enzymes at play here. Lysozyme, Lactoferrin, Glucose Oxidase, and Lactoperoxidase work to boost the natural defense system found in your saliva. That’s a long way of saying this is a fantastic formula.

What’s it taste like? It’s lightly minty – not overpowering.

Usage

9/10

If you’re using this as a mouthwash, you should swirl a tablespoon around for 30 seconds just as you would with an antibacterial formula. But… there’s something a little unusual at play here. You can also “slowly” sip this mouthwash for an extremely dry throat. You should, however, clear this with a medical professional first.

Value

9.5/10

For a two-pack, you’ll pay a little less than $15. It works out to less than 50 cents an ounce. There are other options available (all the way up to a 12 pack), but you’ll pay roughly the same, no matter how many you order.

Overall Editor Score

9.3/10

Have dry mouth? Get a bottle of Biotène. You’ll be happy you did. This mouthwash really helps – so much so that it’s recommended for people undergoing chemotherapy. The formula makes use of a number of compounds that boost your natural defense systems.

You can expect the formula to last for about four hours – and to offer a fresh breath at the same time. The price isn’t terrible, nor are the buying options. But, we would have appreciated the ability to subscribe and save; if you’re suffering from dry mouth… you clearly have other things to worry about.

Available on Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry? If only. We would have loved that.

 

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#4 Best Mouthwash for Whitening Teeth

Crest 3D White Luxe Arctic Fresh Multi-Care Mouthwash

  • Results in noticeably whiter teeth
  • Reduces and prevents stains
  • Good price for an amazing product

Pros

This is a triple action mouthwash; it suppresses nasty breath, whitens teeth, and protects against future germs. It’s available for your Prime Pantry box, and it’s a super price at that.

Product Ratings

Features

9.5/10

What does it claim to do? You may be tempted to dismiss this product, believing that it promises too much. (Don’t make that mistake.) The claim is that this Hydrogen Peroxide mouthwash helps to whiten teeth and prevent future stains. It’s also supposed to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath.

Does it do it? This awesome mouthwash does all of that remarkably well. Indeed, some people report almost instant results on the whitening front (just three days to one week). It also does its job on the breath-freshening front too.

Is it good at anything else? Well, you would have a difficult time finding another benefit to the advertised list here. And, we’re happy to forgive that.

Who’s it for? This is perhaps the best mouthwash on the market for smokers, not to mention red wine and coffee drinkers. Of course, anyone that desires whiter teeth should find a reason to work this into their dental care routine. It’s definitely not for children under the age of 12.

What’s inside the bottle? This mouthwash doesn’t have the longest ingredient list, but the one that that you’re most concerned with is the hydrogen peroxide. It’s fantastic for whitening teeth and killing germs. (But, you already knew that, didn’t you?)

What’s it taste like? Yep, it’s minty, just as you would expect. You will find Hydrogen Peroxide in the mix, which gives it a slightly nasty taste (and aftertaste). Still, it does the job, so you may need to get over it.

Usage

9.5/10

You’re supposed to rinse with a tablespoon of this mouthwash for a minute after brushing your teeth every morning and night.

Value

9.5/10

This is one of the best-priced mouthwashes on the market. Chalk it up to the market share that Crest has, if you will. But, this still costs less than 20 cents per ounce. You gotta love that.

Overall Editor Score

9.5/10

Life takes its toll on every part of your body. And, if you’re the sort that enjoys coffee, red wine, or even the occasional cigarette (we’re not here to judge), then you probably also feel the need for an extra hand when it comes to whitening your teeth. This is the best mouthwash to help you do just that.

We’re big fans of the fact that this Hydrogen Peroxide mouthwash prevents future stains while whitening your teeth and that it can be added to your Prime Pantry list. We’re not so impressed with the taste of this mouthwash. But, we’re doing our best to get over it; this mouthwash is worth it (and it doesn’t cost much either).

Available on Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry? You can add this to your next Prime Pantry box. It fills a mere 5.4 percent, so you can always save it for the moment when you just need that last little bit.

 

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#5 Best Mouthwash for Cavity Protection

ACT Alcohol Free Anticavity Fluoride Rinse

  • Tastes surprisingly great
  • Dispensed in measured sips
  • Helps to reduce tooth sensitivity

Pros

This is one of the few alcohol-free formulas that’s clinically proven to prevent tooth decay while strengthening teeth. And, it carries the maximum amount of fluoride available without a prescription, which really makes a difference.

Product Ratings

Features

9.5/10

What does it claim to do? This anti-cavity formula claims to kill bad breath, strengthen enamel, and restore needed minerals to soft spots.

Does it do it? Just about everyone agrees that this does what it claims and does it well.

Is it good at anything else? You’d be surprised at how well this works for those with sensitive mouths; especially for being alcohol-free.

Who’s it for? As you would expect, you should really keep this out of reach of children. But, the bottle design and the fact that it’s alcohol-free means you shouldn’t stress too much.

What’s inside the bottle? The key ingredient here is sodium fluoride – and plenty of it. You get an exact dose as you squeeze the contents of the bottle into the top.

What’s it taste like? Most people prefer the mint flavor, but there is a cinnamon one available too.

Usage

9.5/10

Considering that you can measure this out specifically, it’s not a bad idea to just read the packaging when you get it. But, it’s not as if you swirl and swish any differently.

Value

9/10

You’re going to pay over 50 cents per ounce on this. That’s an absolute shame. We really think it could fall under that, even a little. But, it is what it is.

Overall Editor Score

9.3/10

There are some seriously good reasons to consider this mouthwash. We’re fans of the fact that you can squeeze the perfect amount into the top of this bottle. And the high level of fluoride without the alcohol is a true plus. What’s more is that it truly does strengthen tooth enamel by depositing minerals back into soft spots.

But, we are left a little wanting on some of the finer points of the sale, such as the price and the omission of this product on any of the Amazon lists that make it easy to keep your home stocked (such as the Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry). Still, if you’re prone to cavities and worried about alcohol in your oral hygiene routine, this is absolutely the mouthwash for you.

Will it break the bank? 

Available on Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry? Sadly, no. Well, at least not at the time of writing.

 

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#6 Best Mouthwash for Fighting Gingivitis

Listerine Ultra Clean Antiseptic Mouthwash

  • Leaves mouth ultra clean
  • Great price
  • Results in refreshingly clean breath

Pros

Besides the price, which you will flip over, this mouthwash sets out to give you plaque and gingivitis-free mouth. And, the anti-tartar ingredient offers cleaner, brighter teeth.

Product Ratings

Features

9/10

What does it claim to do? The marketing team at Listerine really does take a leap when it says this mouthwash provides a dentist-level clean. However, the bottle itself does claim to control tartar build-up and kill plaque and gingivitis germs. It also is said to freshen breath and keep it that way.

Does it do it? We’re not convinced on the dentist-fresh clean, but the rest of the claims hold up under scrutiny.

Is it good at anything else? What more do you want? Just kidding, we know that a miracle product at this price would make anyone happy, but there’s no promise about it.

Who’s it for? If you need a little extra hand dealing with gingivitis or bad breath, this is for you. Just don’t let your kids get into it.

What’s inside the bottle? There’s a fair amount of alcohol in this mix (over 21 percent), but you’ll also find eucalyptol and menthol to get the job done.

What’s it taste like? It’s a strong mint flavor; in fact a little on the too strong side of things. Don’t try it if you can’t handle strong flavors.

Usage

9.5/10

You can rinse with this two to three times a day. It’s best to do it after brushing, but if you need a little help after lunch, we get it.

Value

9.5/10

We love the price of this mouthwash. You’ll get it for about 15 cents an ounce. Come on, who doesn’t love that?

Overall Editor Score

9.3/10

This is the bottle that makes you think of mouthwash and the Listerine brand is well-respected. Add to that the fantastic price of this product and you’re starting to get the picture. This budget mouthwash really does a fantastic job of relieving plaque build-up and other such nasties. But it tastes terrible; likely as a result of the incredibly high alcohol content. Still, you will get fresher breath that lasts until your next meal.

Available on Subscribe and Save or Prime Pantry? You can add this to your Prime Pantry box; it takes up eight percent of your space, just in case you’re wondering.

 

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Mouthwash Expert Tips

Mouthwash Myths

Think you know everything there is to know about mouthwash? Here are a few of the more common mouthwash myths that need dispelling:

Mouthwash cures bad breath. Some mouthwashes do, but not all. Some can encourage bad breath (due to the fact that they dry out your mouth). And remember, mouthwash is a temporary fix, not a long-term solution, for the underlying cause of your bad breath.

Mouthwashes are all the same. Not at all, as you’ll see in the next section, there are different mouthwashes for different purposes (teeth whitening, anti-cavities, desensitizing, etc.).

Mouthwash is good for you. Many types of mouthwash will improve your oral health, but some can do more harm than good. For example, alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out your mouth, increasing bad breath or causing sensitivity in the roots of your teeth.

Mouthwash can replace a toothbrush. Heck no! Mouthwash will rinse your mouth, but you need a toothbrush for proper scrubbing and deep cleaning. Only a toothbrush and dental floss will effectively get rid of the food particles trapped between your teeth.

As you can see, there’s a lot about mouthwash that is misunderstood. Below, we’re going to teach you everything you need to know about the pros and cons of mouthwash, how to use it, and what to watch out for.

Types of Mouthwash

Mouthwash isn’t a “one size fits all” product. There are several different types of mouthwash you can buy:

  • Anti-Plaque – This mouthwash contains ingredients like Thymol, Triclosan, Cetylpyridinium Chloride, and Chlorhexidine, all of which help to reduce the accumulation of plaque on your teeth. By reducing plaque, you reduce your risk of gingivitis.
  • Cosmetic – This mouthwash is used to mask bad smells, leaving your mouth smelling fresh and clean. However, it’s really only a short-term solution if you need fresh breath immediately. It doesn’t deal with the bacteria or food particles, causing bad breath.
  • Whitening – This mouthwash is used to whiten your teeth. It contains a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, that will eliminate stains and whiten your teeth with regular use.
  • Fluoride Rinse – This mouthwash is used to reduce your risk of tooth decay. It contains roughly .05% sodium fluoride, which can help to fight off cavities and oral bacteria.
  • Desensitizing – This mouthwash is intended to reduce tooth sensitivity. It contains arginine, which can help to reduce dentinal tubules on the more sensitive parts of your teeth.

Before you use any mouthwash, consult your dentist to find out if they recommend or advise against it. As you’ll see below, mouthwash may do more harm than good…

Reasons to Use Mouthwash

Obviously, we’re going to start with the “pros” of using mouthwash. Here are all the things that make it a good idea to add mouthwash to your daily grooming habits:

Fresh Breath – The minty freshness of the mouthwash is definitely a good thing. If you eat strong-smelling foods (spices, garlic, etc.) or drink a lot of coffee, tea, or alcohol, rinsing your mouth out with mouthwash can mask the bad odors and leave your breath smelling pleasant.

Fight Gum Disease – Most mouthwashes are made with ingredients (like fluoride) that will kill off bacteria and/or prevent the build-up of plaque. This will reduce the risk of gingivitis, periodontitis, and other gum diseases.

Reduce Cavity Risk – Fluoride is added to your mouthwashes in order to strengthen the enamel covering your teeth. Stronger enamel is resistant to bacteria, reducing your cavity risk.

Treat Sores, Ulcers, and Canker Sores – Mouthwashes can help to detoxify the flesh around mouth sores and ulcers, reducing the irritating bacteria that are causing or worsening the sore.

Better Oral Health During Pregnancy – Pregnant women are at a higher risk of gingivitis due to hormonal changes. Mouthwash can help to reduce the bacterial build-up that leads to gum infections and gum disease, improving oral health during pregnancy.

Dangers of Mouthwash

Despite the above-listed “pros” of using mouthwash, it turns out there are a few more “cons” than you might expect.

Oral Irritation – Alcohol-based mouthwashes can be very irritating, especially to canker sores and ulcers in your mouth. The irritation can make the sores and ulcers worse!

Chemical Interactions – The chemicals in the mouthwash may interact negatively with the chemicals in your toothpaste. This could lead to oral irritation, or the chemicals may simply cancel each other out.

Ineffective – The truth is that mouthwash just “masks” the bad breath, but it doesn’t deal with the bacteria, food particles, and infections that cause it. If you have chronic bad breath, covering the smell with mouthwash will do nothing to help you deal with the root cause. People who use mouthwash instead of brushing their teeth are opting for an ineffective teeth-cleaning method that will not get rid of bacteria and food particles.

Potential Link to Oral Cancer – Since the 1970s, there has been an ongoing debate about whether or not mouthwash—both fluoride- and alcohol-based mouthwashes—can lead to an increased risk of oral cancer. A 2012 meta-analysis of 18 epidemiological studies found “no statistically significant associations between mouthwash use and risk of oral cancer, nor any significant trend in risk with increasing daily use, and no association between use of mouthwash containing alcohol and oral cancer risk.” However, a 2014 study found that people with poor oral health had the highest risk of oral cancers. Considering the ineffectiveness of mouthwash, using it instead of brushing your teeth could raise your cancer risk.

Sensitive Teeth – Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dissolve the mucus layer protecting your teeth, leaving them vulnerable and causing increased sensitivity.

Bacterial Disruption – The beneficial bacteria are living in your mouth may be disrupted by the chemicals in antibacterial mouthwash. This disruption can cause harmful bacteria to flourish and alter your oral pH balance. Worse, it may lead to oral thrush, bad breath, and cavities.

Dries Out Your Mouth – The alcohol in many types of mouthwash (including Listerine) will dry out your mouth, eliminating the saliva that is protecting your mouth from bacteria. You will very likely end up with worse breath thanks to your mouthwash.

Chemicals in Mouthwash

The main threat to your oral health comes from two sources: the alcohol and chemicals in your mouthwash.

Alcohol – When you drink alcohol, have you ever noticed that it dries out your mouth? Alcohol is a desiccant, a drying agent. It dries up the protective coating of saliva, leaving your teeth, gums, tongue, and the inside of your mouth unprotected.

What happens when the bacteria in your mouth (mostly unaffected by the alcohol) starts to feed on the food particles trapped between your teeth (not effectively removed by mouthwash)? The bacteria multiply and begin to eat away at your teeth and gums. This can lead to bad breath and a higher risk of infection.

The drying effect of alcohol-based mouthwashes makes them a bad choice for good oral health. Unless your dentist specifically prescribes an alcohol-based mouthwash, try to find one made WITHOUT alcohol.

Chemicals – Do you have any idea just how many chemicals there are in your mouthwash? What’s more, do you have any idea what those chemicals do?

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is one of the most commonly used chemicals, and it can have the same drying effect as alcohol. It can also cause microscopic damage to oral tissue, leading to an increased risk of sores and ulcers.
  • Clorhexidine kills off the good bacteria in your mouth, and it may increase your risk of high blood pressure.
  • Benzalkonium Chloride can irritate the mucus membranes inside your mouth, potentially leading to swelling of the tongue, lips, and mouth. It may also cause allergic reactions, including breathing difficulties.
  • Hexetidine (also known as oraldene) can have some pretty nasty side effects as well, such as unstable heartbeat, allergic reactions, failure of certain parts of the brain, and a higher risk of cancer.
  • Methyl Salicylate, if consumed in excess, can lead to low blood pressure, vomiting, convulsions, and kidney failure. It’s one reason you should NEVER swallow mouthwash!
  • Methylparaben has the potential to increase the risk of breast cancer, as it can accelerate the growth of tumor cells.

These chemicals are all found in your mouthwash!

Let’s be clear: most mouthwashes are FDA-approved, which means they are manufactured according to the safety standards passed by the U.S. Government. Most of the chemicals in your mouthwash are used in minimal doses, so there isn’t a massive health risk.

However, it’s important that you understand that risk does exist. Your exposure to these chemicals can lead to negative effects. If you’re trying to reduce chemical exposure, you will do well to find alternatives to the commercially sold mouthwashes.

Alternatives to Mouthwash

Want to rinse your mouth and teeth WITHOUT exposing yourself to chemicals and alcohol? Try these natural alternatives:

  • Salt – Drop a teaspoon of salt in ¼ glass of warm water, and swish it around in your mouth. The sodium will be an effective bacteria-killer!
  • Cinnamon and Honey – Add half a tablespoon of cinnamon and 1½ teaspoons of organic honey to a cup of warm water, along with the juice of two lemons. Use this as a mouthwash, and the antibacterial properties of the lemon, honey, and cinnamon will protect your mouth and teeth.
  • Baking Soda – Sodium bicarbonate is an excellent odor-killer and anti-bacterial agent. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and use it as a mouthwash.
  • Coconut Oil – Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic technique intended to kill off bacteria, reduce odors, and improve oral health. The Vitamin E in the oil works as an antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal agent.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar – The astringent properties of apple cider vinegar will do wonders to kill off odor-causing bacteria. Mix ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar with ¾ cups of warm water, and use it as a mouthwash.
  • Peppermint Oil – Peppermint oil contains strong antibacterial properties, and it can help to freshen up your breath. Add a few drops of peppermint oil to half a cup of warm water. Mix well, swish around in your mouth, and spit. You’ll find your mouth is much healthier, and your breath much more pleasant.
  • Lemon Juice – Lemon juice contains potent antibacterial and astringent properties. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into ½ cup of warm water and use it as a natural, chemical-free mouthwash.

Mouthwash for Kids

According to the National Institutes for Health, up to 73% of children under the age of 11 suffer from gum disease, while 42% of these same children have already experienced tooth decay and cavities.

Oral hygiene is SO important for your children, which is why it’s vital that you teach them to brush their teeth at a young age.

But what about mouthwash? Should they be using it or not?

For the sake of safety, make sure your children are using alcohol-free mouthwash. This will reduce the risk of oral health problems.

For children under the age of six, it’s safer to avoid any mouthwashes that contain fluoride. Small quantities of fluoride (in the water and mouthwash) can help to protect their teeth, but too much can cause discoloration of teeth enamel (fluorosis).

Always supervise your children when they are rinsing using mouthwash. Teach them to spit it out and swallow as little as possible. Plus, supervising them will help them learn to brush, floss, and rinse their teeth regularly, building the oral health habits they need at a young age.

And always store the mouthwash OUT OF REACH of your children so they don’t get into it and/or drink it when you aren’t watching. Be sure to check out our other related articles like teeth whitening.

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