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Top 9 Best Antibacterial Mouthwashes

UpdatedOctober 23, 2024

Caring for one's teeth is an important part of promoting and advancing health. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day but to remove all the bacteria just brushing is not effective. And that is where mouthwash comes in handy. Mouthwash is a germicide that removes germs and bacteria in your mouth making your mouth fresh and healthy.

A specific type of mouthwash that has emerged in recent years is antibacterial mouthwash. This type of mouthwash is known as ‘antibacterial’ because it is formulated to eliminate bacteria in your mouth. This can be especially helpful for individuals with periodontal disease or halitosis due to bacterial growth.

However, with such a myriad of choices, one is bound to wonder which is the most suitable for him or her. That is why we have provided below the list of the most effective antibacterial mouth rinses available.

Top 3 Best Antibacterial Mouthwash

  1. Cepacol Antibacterial Mouthwash
  2. Dentalcidin LS Liposomal Oral Care Solution by Biocidin
  3. WishGarden Herbs Gum Strength Oral Health Aid

In the subsequent sections, we will tell you our choices that we believe are the best and why. Our list contains alcohol-free and fluoride-free mouthwash and we also have mouthwash for sensitive teeth. Continue reading to discover which of them is suitable to use when practicing oral hygiene.


Cepacol Antibacterial Mouthwash

Editor's Choice

Cepacol Antibacterial Mouthwash

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If you are interested in a mouthwash that not only kills germs but also leaves your mouth with fresh breath, Cepacol Antibacterial Mouthwash could be recommended for you.

Pros

  • Cepacol Antibacterial Mouthwash kills germs that cause bad breath, leaving you with fresher breath throughout the day.
  • It's the number one brand in hospitals, which speaks to its effectiveness in killing germs.
  • The refreshing blend of cinnamon, eucalyptol, and mint oils, and a cooling touch of menthol create a pleasant taste and sensation in the mouth.

Cons

  • The cinnamon flavor may be too strong for some users.
  • The mouthwash may cause a burning sensation for some users, especially those with sensitive teeth or gums.
  • The bottle cap may leak, causing the mouthwash to spill.

Cepacol Antibacterial Mouthwash has a good taste and gives a cool feeling in the mouth after use of the mouthwash. The only con that I noticed is that there is too much cinnamon added to the product, which can be a con for people who don’t like cinnamon. Also, some of the users may report a tingling feeling on their teeth or gum when they are using the mouthwash.


Dentalcidin LS Liposomal Oral Care Solution by Biocidin

Dentalcidin LS Liposomal Oral Care Solution by Biocidin

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We highly recommend the Dentalcidin LS Liposomal Oral Care Solution by Biocidin if you need an effective long-term antibacterial mouthwash.

Pros:

  • Utilizes liposomal technology for enhanced delivery and absorption of key ingredients.
  • Contains botanical extracts like Biocidin® and black walnut hull for antimicrobial properties.
  • Supports oral health by promoting a balanced microbiome in the mouth.

Cons:

  • Some users may find the taste or consistency unpleasant.
  • Relatively higher cost compared to traditional oral care products.
  • Requires consistent and regular use for optimal results.

This breakthrough oral care system harnesses the efficacy of botanicals and the advanced delivery system of liposomes. Another advantage of Dentalcidin LS is that it maintains proper oral microflora while providing users with fresh breath and improving their oral health.

Apart from keeping the mouth clean and healthy it also gives a kind of relief, especially for those with sensitive gums. This makes it easy to use in the form of mouth wash or directly on the affected areas of the mouth. In conclusion, Dentalcidin LS has been incorporated into our daily oral care regime, and we would recommend it to those people who are searching for natural oral health care products.


WishGarden Herbs Gum Strength Oral Health Aid

WishGarden Herbs Gum Strength Oral Health Aid

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WishGarden Herbs Gum Strength Oral Health Aid – realize natural oral care. Made from effective substances such as myrrh and Usnea, this mouthwash is your perfect companion to keep your gums healthy.

Pros

  • Harnesses the potency of myrrh and Usnea for optimal gum health.
  • Supports a healthy inflammatory response and oral microbiome.
  • 100% natural and herbal, free from harsh chemicals.
  • Convenient 2oz size for on-the-go freshness.

Cons

  • Some users may find the taste initially strong.
  • Requires consistent use for best results.

Myrrh helps in healing and soothing the gum tissues while Usnea supports healthy inflammation for the gum tissues. Unlike other mouthwash products which contain chemicals in their formulations, this natural product promotes healthy oral hygiene without a trace of compromise. It is small and portable hence can be carried around for use to promote fresh breath and healthy gums while on the move.

Otherwise, the taste may be strong at the beginning, but the effect that the body receives is worth it. Daily use brings about significant changes in gum strength and other aspects of oral health. WishGarden Herbs Gum Strength Oral Health Aid – no more chemical laden products for our mouth and teeth! Buy this safe and natural antibacterial mouthwash today and enhance your oral hygiene practice.


Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Alcohol Free Mouthwash

Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Alcohol Free Mouthwash

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For a long-lasting antibacterial mouthwash that is alcohol-free, we highly recommend the Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Alcohol Free Mouthwash. Its long-term effectiveness, antibacterial properties and anti-plaque factors make it an essential product for those who want to enhance the quality of their oral hygiene.

Pros

  • Provides 12-hour protection against germs even after eating and drinking
  • Kills 99% of germs on contact
  • Helps reduce plaque and gingivitis

Cons

  • Taste may not be to everyone's liking
  • May cause slight burning sensation for some users
  • Some users may prefer a mouthwash with alcohol for a stronger clean

The 12 hours of protection is another big plus as it helps to keep the mouths clean throughout the day. We also liked the fact that it does not contain any alcohol, as this tends to sting the mouth and cause some discomfort.

Also, one of the significant benefits of using this mouthwash is that it effectively eliminates up to 99 percent of germs in the mouth. This makes us feel relieved knowing that not only are we able to have fresh mouths, but our mouths are also free from any bacteria that can harm us. Further, the mouthwash aids in the prevention of plaque and gingivitis which are largely associated with severe dental complications.

Though it may not be palatable for everyone, the peppermint flavor is invigorating and leaves the mouth feeling fresh. But some of the users may feel some burning sensation especially for those who have sensitive tongue. It is also important to know that some users may need a mouthwash containing alcohol as it is more effective in removing stains.


TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash

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The TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash is ideal for anyone who wants to use an effective mouthwash for maintaining good oral hygiene. This makes it a useful product for anyone who wants to minimize the chances of developing gum diseases and bleeding gums.

Pros

  • Helps fight gingivitis and bleeding gums for 24 hours when used as directed.
  • Non-burning formula made without alcohol that starts working instantly.
  • Periodontist recommended ingredient CPC helps control plaque that leads to gingivitis and bleeding gums.

Cons

  • Some users may not like the taste of the Clean Mint flavor.
  • The price point may be a little high for some users.
  • The product may not be suitable for users with sensitive teeth.

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash is an oral hygiene product developed by a dentist to prevent gum diseases and bleeding gums. It is enriched with CPC, an FDA-approved active ingredient that has been proven to reduce instances of gingivitis. The nonalcoholic formula is meant to leave the breath minty and fresh without any sensation of burning or stinging.

This is because the periodontist-recommended ingredient CPC makes it a reliable choice for maintaining oral health. TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash is convenient to apply and gets to work in a matter of seconds. Its non-burning formula does not harm the mouth in any way and does not cause any irritation. The only drawback is that some people may not find the taste of the Clean Mint flavor very appealing.


Crest Pro Health Advanced Multi-Protection Mouthwash

Crest Pro Health Advanced Multi-Protection Mouthwash

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Crest Pro Health Advanced Multi-Protection Mouthwash is a great product that can be used in order to improve your oral hygiene. This mouthwash will therefore suit anyone who wants to avoid cavities, eliminate germs causing bad breath and build up the strength of their teeth.

Pros

  • Helps prevent cavities
  • Kills bad breath germs
  • Strengthens enamel

Cons

  • The taste may not be for everyone
  • May cause slight sensitivity in some users
  • Some users may not see noticeable results

Crest Pro Health Advanced Multi-Protection Mouthwash has a unique minty taste that makes our mouth feels clean. Another great thing about this mouthwash is that it can prevent cavities. It includes fluoride which is effective in building up the enamel and preventing tooth decay.

Additionally, this mouthwash eliminates germs that cause breath, making your mouth smell fresh and clean. It is also free from alcohol which means it does not produce that feeling of burning in the mouth.

However, some users may not like the taste of this mouthwash, which has quite a strong taste in some cases. Furthermore, some individuals may develop slight gum irritation after using this mouthwash. In addition, there are those who may not experience a significant improvement in their oral health even after using this mouthwash.


Crest Gum Care Mouthwash

Crest Gum Care Mouthwash

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If you are keen on using mouthwash that does not contain alcohol and you are in the early stages of gum disease then Crest Gum Care Mouthwash is the best thing to use. It is efficient, relevant and simple to use.

Pros

  • Neutralizes plaque germs around the gum line
  • Reduces early signs of gum disease, including bleeding gums
  • Kills bacteria that cause plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath

Cons

  • May not be as strong as other mouthwashes
  • Wintergreen flavor might not be for everyone
  • Packaging can be difficult to open for some users

Crest Gum Care Mouthwash is a mouthwash that has a pleasant, cool wintergreen taste that indeed leaves the breath fresh. We also like the fact that it has no alcohol in it and therefore does not leave burning of the mouth.

What we found most appealing about Crest Gum Care Mouthwash is that it kills germs in plaque at the gum line. This is important because it reduces the chances of getting gum diseases and also minimizes bleeding of the gums. They have also observed that it eliminates bacteria that are responsible for plaque, gingivitis and halitosis.

Crest Gum Care Mouthwash works well, but it may not be as potent as other mouth rinses available. However, if you want a mouthwash that produces a stronger effect than this product is capable of, then you will be disappointed. Furthermore, the wintergreen flavor may not suit everybody’s preference in terms of taste.

Last of all, it was determined that the packaging can be problematic for some users when it comes to opening the product. These two bottles are made of very hard plastic and the two parts of the bottle are difficult to split apart. Nevertheless, this is a small drawback and you should not be put off from using Crest Gum Care Mouthwash.


ioRinse Ultra Mouthwash

ioRinse Ultra Mouthwash

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Based on this research, we highly appreciate the ioRinse Ultra Mouthwash for people seeking an effective mouthwash to fight gingivitis, bad breath, and plaque formation. Altogether, its efficacy and advantage of promoting superior gum health make it essential for anyone who wants to have a healthy mouth.

Pros

  • Proven to be effective in destroying periodontal impurities that cause gingivitis compared to leading dentist-recommended rinses.
  • Superior gum health and helps prevent gum issues, giving you a fresh and healthy smile.
  • Alcohol-free formula makes it perfect for sensitive mouths and those who prefer an alcohol-free option.

Cons

  • Some users may not like the taste.
  • The bottle may be too large for some people's preferences.
  • May be more expensive than other mouthwash brands.

This mouthwash is the only rinse that is proven to work, and it is 28 times more effective than any other type of rinse. The powerful formula strengthens gums and reduces the risk of future gum problems, so you have a healthy smile. It is worth mentioning that ioRinse Ultra does not contain alcohol, which can be of interest to those with delicate oral cavities or individuals who prefer non-alcoholic products.

As for the taste, some people may not like the taste of the strips, but it is an effective way of getting rid of bad breath. While the bottle may be large and unwieldy for some people, they are going to get a lot of mouthwash for the price. Compared to the other mouthwash products in the market, ioRinse Ultra may be costly, but it is all worth it because of the efficacy and advantages that it offers.


CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash

CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash

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For a highly effective mouthwash that is gentle on the gum line and doesn’t have any burning sensation, we suggest CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash. This is a good investment towards your oral health and we are sure you will not regret having chosen our services.

Pros

  • CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash is clinically proven to fight bad breath for 24 hours.
  • The pH balanced formula is as gentle as water, making it perfect for sensitive mouths.
  • The alcohol-free formula hydrates, soothes, and relieves mouth without burning or irritating.

Cons

  • The price may be a bit higher than other mouthwashes on the market.
  • Some customers have reported that the taste is not as strong as they would like.
  • The packaging could be more user-friendly.

The taste of the mint is mild and pleasant and the use of mouthwash makes our breath smell fresh throughout the day. We like that it does not cause any burning or irritation in our mouth as some other mouthwash solutions do and we also love the fact that the mouthwash is clinically proven to combat bad breath for one day.

Another thing that we love about CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash is the fact that it is pH-balanced. It will not interfere with sensitive teeth and gums and it does not sting like most commercial mouthwash products do when they are swallowed. We also like that it does not contain alcohol since it does not leave our mouth dry and can cause irritation.

However, despite the fact that CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash may cost a little more than other mouthwashes in the market, we recommend it for use. The quality of the product is great and we like the fact that it is prepared using quality and safe ingredients.

Buying Guide

There are certain things that people need to look for when it comes to selecting the right antibacterial mouthwash. Here are some key features to look for:

Active Ingredients

The compounds that are present in mouthwash are what make it possess the ability to kill bacteria and help in improving the smell of the mouth. You should look for products containing cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, or some essential oils like thymol, eucalyptol, and menthol. All these ingredients have been known to work effectively in the fight against plaque and other causes of bad breath.

Alcohol Content

Some of these mouthwashes have alcohol in their composition, which is damaging to some people and can also cause dryness of the mouth. In case you have sensitive teeth or gums or you suffer from dry mouth you might prefer using an alcohol containing mouthwash.

Fluoride

One of the components of the mouthwash is fluoride since it is very effective in the building of tooth enamel to fight cavities. If you are a cavity prone individual, ensure that the mouthwash you are using contains fluoride.

Taste

Mouthwash is available in different flavors; use a flavor that you feel comfortable using. Of these, the most common are mint, cinnamon, and citrus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended mouthwashes by dentists for gum health?

For gum diseases, dentists prescribe mouth washes that include chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and essential oil. The following ingredients have been found effective in the elimination of plaque and gingivitis and the promotion of healthy gums. Some of the best mouth rinses for gum health are Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash, Crest Pro-Health Clinical Mouthwash, and Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash.

Which mouthwash is most effective for preventing tartar and plaque buildup?

Fluoride and triclosan containing mouthwash is advised for controlling tartar and plaque formation in patients. Fluoride is useful in reinforcing the outermost layer of the tooth while triclosan aids in the reduction of plaque formation. Some of the best ones include Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash, ACT Total Care Mouthwash, and Listerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash.

How does antiseptic mouthwash differ from antibacterial mouthwash in treating tooth infections?

These are useful in eliminating germs and preventing cases of infection in our mouth. They may be composed of alcohol and chlorhexidine, both of which are known to possess broad-spectrum antibacterial properties. Whereas, antibacterial mouthwashes are meant for eradicating bacteria that are responsible for causing the foul smell. It may also include other ingredients such as CPC and zinc chloride. Antiseptic mouth rinses are considered stronger than herbal types because both are used in treating tooth infections.

What are the best mouthwash options for managing gingivitis and reducing plaque?

Antimicrobial agents such as chlorhexidine, CPC and essential oils used in mouthwash have been found to be useful in controlling gingivitis and plaque formation. Some of the best options are Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash, Crest Gum Detoxify Mouthwash, and Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash. As much as mouthwash is effective in treating gingivitis and fighting plaque, its use should not be a substitute for brushing and flossing.

Can over-the-counter mouthwashes effectively kill bacteria and which are most potent?

Such mouthwashes are available without prescription and their effectiveness in killing bacteria may differ. Alcohol, chlorhexidine, and essential oil-based mouthwashes are more effective compared to those without these ingredients. Some strong products are Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash, Crest Pro-Health Clinical Mouthwash, and ACT Total Care Mouthwash.

Are there specific mouthwashes that are best suited for individuals with receding gums?

People with receding gums should consider using mouthwash with fluoride and/or stannous fluoride. With these ingredients, it is possible to build tooth enamel and minimize the sensitivity. Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash, ACT Total Care Mouthwash, and Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash are some of the alternatives that are available. However, it is essential to remember that although mouthwash may be of assistance when it comes to receding gums, it cannot be used as a replacement for professional dental care and therapy.

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