Mouthwash has long been a staple of oral hygiene routines, promising fresher breath, a healthier mouth, and protection against plaque and bacteria. But how beneficial are the ingredients in mouthwash, and should you include it in your daily routine?
Unlike brushing or flossing, using mouthwash is quick and easy. A 30-second rinse can fit seamlessly into the busiest routines. And it’s hard not to get sucked into all the marketing hype. Popular mouthwash brand Listerine says it kills 99% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis. That may sound good, but that also means it’s killing all the good bacteria in your mouth. There are more good bacteria in your mouth than there are people on this planet. This oral bacterium is important for your health. They’re part of your microbiome—the community of organisms that live in and on your body. These “good” bacteria help with things like keeping your blood vessels flexible and even lowering your blood pressure. So, it makes you wonder: could using mouthwash be disrupting this delicate balance, causing more harm than good?
The fact that Listerine kills germs and bacteria isn’t surprising. Did you know Listerine was once marketed as a surgical antiseptic and powerful floor cleaner? Now, you can find it in most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. A lot of dentists are also recommending it on social media—just search for hashtag #ListerinePartner. Oh, and that stinging sensation you feel as you swish—that’s alcohol. It’s found in many mouthwashes, although you may have to search for it on the label. It’s sometimes listed as an inactive ingredient. But don’t be fooled; this alcohol is doing a lot more than killing bacteria in your mouth.
But maybe you’re one of those people who loves their mouthwash routine and the fresh feeling it gives you. You might not be entirely ready to give up mouthwash, and that’s okay. There are also natural mouthwashes that offer a gentler, chemical-free option for maintaining oral health. They typically use plant-based ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, peppermint oil, and clove oil to provide antibacterial and soothing benefits, helping to freshen breath and reduce inflammation without the harsh effects of alcohol or artificial chemicals. You can even make your own at home.
If you have a bit more time, you may want to ditch your mouthwash and try oil pulling instead. Oil pulling is an ancient practice where you swish a tablespoon of natural oil, like coconut or sesame, in your mouth for about 10–20 minutes. It helps remove bacteria and toxins, reduce plaque, freshen breath, and boost gum health, all while being a natural, chemical-free alternative to regular mouthwash.
When it comes to dental hygiene, you now have more options and information than ever before. When evaluating mouthwash, consider your personal health needs and preferences. Ultimately, it’s important to assess your oral health goals, any sensitivities, and the ingredients that best align with your values for a mouthwash that suits your routine.
