11 Best Mouthwashes For Gingivitis In 2024
Specialty: Dentistry, Dental Public HealthExperience: 18 yearsDr. Farayi (Shakespeare) Moyana is the founder of the Zimbabwe Academy of Dental Nursing and a board member for Sunshine Kids Musha Vana, a not-for-profit organization headquartered in Australia. He holds a PhD in Bioethics and Health Law from the University of Witwatersrand and a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University.
Read full bio of Dr. Farayi Shakespeare Moyana
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In This Article
Your oral care kit is incomplete without the best mouthwash to prevent and control gingivitis gum disease. What’s gingivitis? You may ask. It is the inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria or plaque build-up, sometimes as a result of delayed scale and polish at the dentist.
Dr. Farayi Shakespeare Moyana, a dental public health expert in Zimbabwe, says, “Some people assume that they do not need any dental check up as long as they do not feel any obvious problem in the mouth and they brush their teeth twice a day. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Regular dental checkups should be a priority and should not be ignored.”
Oral issues such as gingivitis are linked to heart diseases too. Therefore, one of the gingivitis treatment options includes using an effective and good mouthwash. It helps eliminate odor, fight bacteria, and reduce inflammation of the gums. Mouthwashes that contain essential oils, chlorhexidine, and cetylpyridinium work like a charm to improve your oral health. So, take a look at the list of mouthwashes and gingivitis prevention tips we’ve listed here so you can flaunt that million-dollar smile.
Top Picks
11 Best Mouthwashes For Gingivitis
1. Best Periodontist-Formulated: TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse
The oral rinse may just be the soothing answer to your swollen gums, sensitive teeth, and bleeding gums. It’s known to be an effective and safe treatment to fight bacteria and common gingivitis symptoms. This periodontist-formulated antibacterial mouthwash contains the FDA-approved ingredient cetylpyridinium chloride, which is clinically proven to kill germs linked to gingivitis and other periodontal diseases, as well as xylitol, to neutralize the decay process. It’s also infused with oxygenating and zinc compounds to fight bad breath. This product is endorsed by medical professionals and is alcohol-free, which means no burning, irritation, or inflamed and sensitive gums. It comes in a pack of two 16 fluid-ounce bottles and takes good care of your teeth as it effectively protects against germs, plaque, tartar, and bleeding gums. Check out this simple review video showcasing a tester’s experience to understand how the product works.
Pros
- Contains no artificial colors or flavors
- Kosher-certified
- Vegan-friendly and gluten-free
- Gentle, non-acidic formula
- No added saccharin
- Works for 24 hours
Cons
- May not be strong enough for some
- Some may not like the taste
"Incorporating this mouthwash into my morning routine has improved my overall dental hygiene. It also does not feel too sweet or sting my gums and tongue. However, I would recommend storing it upright to prevent leaks."
Caution
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 17,820 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
2. Best Antibacterial: Parodontax Active Gum Health Mouthwash
The Parodontax mouthwash is formulated with cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) to target various oral issues and promote healthier teeth and gums with regular use. This anti-gingivitis over-the-counter mouthwash comes in a 16.9 fl oz bottle and can help you fight plaque and bacteria effectively. It forms an antibacterial shield over your teeth after each rinse that keeps harmful bacteria at bay, promotes gum health to reduce those painful visits to the dentist. This results-driven mouthwash can help you eliminate 99.9% of bacteria, leaving your mouth fresh and clean. Moreover, the minty flavor helps you get rid of bad breath.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Anti-gingivitis
- Prevents gum bleeding
- Thoroughly cleans the oral cavity
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- May have an unpleasant aftertaste
- May leave a blue tint
"Despite the lack of stinging sensation, this mouthwash keeps my breath fresh throughout the day. Its consistency also allows me to comfortably swish it in my mouth. I wish it didn't have that sight aftertaste, but it always disappears in a few minutes."
3. Best Natural: Hello Naturally Healthy Antigingivitis Mouthwash
Your smile will get a bit wider with this therapeutic mouthwash that prevents plaque and gingivitis, freshens your breath, and has an awesome taste. This anti-gingivitis natural remedy mouthwash contains aloe vera to protect your gums and coconut oil to moisturize them. It comes in a pack of three bottles which are made from 25% recycled material, each containing 473 ml of mouthwash to look after your gum health to ensure that you don’t wince every time you rinse your mouth. You can watch this product testing video to understand how the product works before buying.
Pros
- Contains natural sweeteners
- Vegan-friendly
- Not tested on animals
- Free of artificial sweeteners and flavors
- Contains no dyes and sulfates
- Fluoride-free
Cons
- Some may find it too sweet
- Might not feel fresh all day
"The chemical-free formulation is what pushed me to get this mouthwash. Its foamy effect was a surprise, but I am relieved it does not sting like traditional mouthwashes. Besides, the lack of SLS keeps my mouth from turning dry."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 2,584 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse Best Periodontist-Formulated | Parodontax Active Gum Health Mouthwash Best Antibacterial | Hello Naturally Healthy Antigingivitis Mouthwash Best Natural | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9 x 5.88 x 3 inches | - | 2 x 10.5 x 9 inches |
| Weight | 2.08 Pounds | - | 3.66 Pounds. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 17,820 | 401 | 2,584 |
| Price | $17.98 | $17.49 | $14.97 |
4. Best Antimicrobial: SmartMouth Clinical DDS Activated Oral Rinse
Show your mouth some love with this antimicrobial mouthwash for gingivitis, bad breath, and bleeding gums. Innovative zinc ion technology prevents the formation of sulfur gas and provides additional protection from gingivitis, plaque, and receding gums. This doctor-recommended antigingivitis mouthwash gives you all the benefits without that burning sensation. It features a pleasant, minty taste and has no lingering aftertaste. This prescription strength mouthwash comes in a pack of two bottles containing 16 fluid ounces each and looks after your gum health very effectively. This product testing video will help you understand whether this is the right product for your needs.
Pros
- Safe for diabetic patients
- Keeps mouth fresh for 24 hours
- Alcohol-free
- Dentist-recommended
Cons
- Bottles may be difficult to use
- Some may not like the taste
"My mouth feels fresh for hours after using the product. Its bottle, however, isn't user-friendly. Still, using it has led to notably less tartar build-up, making the packaging issue seem a minor trade-off. Overall, it has been a dependable find for everyday use."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 2,444 rave reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Tartar-Control Formula: Listerine Ultraclean Antiseptic Mouthwash
Give your mouth a fresh burst of citrusy flavor with this powerful mouthwash for gingivitis from a expert-reccomended brand. It fights the buildup of tartar and kills almost 100% of germs that cause bleeding and swollen gums, bad breath, and plaque buildup. This results-driven mouthwash has an added tartar-control ingredient that helps to keep your gums healthy, and it is recommended to rinse with this antiseptic mouthwash twice a day for 30 seconds for the best results. Its potent Everfresh technology leaves a fresh and clean feeling in your mouth that lasts for hours.
Pros
- Keeps breath fresh all day
- Environment-friendly packing
- Can be used twice a day
- Does not burn
- Helps prevent periodontal disease
Cons
- Some may not like the flavor
- Quantity may not be enough
"I was skeptical about this mouthwash due to the unconventional flavor, but it has proven palatable and efficient. The thick formula requires dilution, but its cleaning power is consistent even when used in diluted forms. Additionally, it keeps my mouth fresh for extended periods."
Quick tip6. Best Alcohol-Free: Crest Pro-Health Clinical Oral Rinse
If you have been fretting over plaque buildup and gingivitis and don’t really know what to do about it, this mouthwash may be a real game-changer. With cetylpyridinium chloride as its active ingredient, this mouthwash offers almost 100% protection from swollen and bleeding gums as well as bad breath and ensures that you have healthy teeth. This anti-gingivitis rinse is clinically proven to not only reduce plaque but also prevent and reverse gingivitis within two weeks. Germs don’t stand a chance in your mouth with this mouthwash, and its minty smell fights bad breath and leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Phthalate-free
- Prevents plaque regrowth
- Keeps mouth fresh all day
- Antimicrobial
Cons
- Might lead to irritating gums for some
- Some may not like the flavor
"After trying multiple mouthwashes, I have settled on this as it has improved my gum health like no other product. Its taste isn't my favorite, but the results it provides have made it a permanent part of my brushing routine."
7. Best Anti-Plaque: AmazonBasics Multi-Action Antiseptic Rinse
With its minty-fresh taste and antiseptic properties, the AmazonBasics multi-action rinse is a suitable mouthwash to target various oral problems, including gingivitis, bleeding or swollen gums, and tooth sensitivity. It is available in a 1-liter bottle pack with a deep plastic bottle cap for easy pouring. The minty flavor refreshes your breath, and the 0.07% cetylpyridinium chloride formula, known for its proven efficacy, can help you eliminate plaque-causing bacteria from your oral cavity. You can include this alcohol-free formula in your everyday oral hygiene routine to get healthier gums and teeth.
Pros
- Improves oral hygiene
- Suitable for sensitive teeth
- Has a minty flavor
- Suitable for regular use
Cons
- Taste may be a bit strong for some
- May leave a bluish residue
"The best part about this mouthwash is its refreshing, minty flavor. Besides, it does not cause any burning sensation and still makes my breath smell fresh all day. Plus, I’ve also noticed a reduction in plaque since I started using it."
8. Best Gentle Formula: Prevention Mouth Rinse
Having bad breath or bleeding gums can be very upsetting. This results-driven mouthwash for gingivitis is bacteria selective, which means it keeps bad bacteria at bay while allowing the good bacteria to grow. It helps to ease discomfort caused by problems like ulcers and mucositis. It contains safe ingredients like glycerin, hydrogen peroxide, menthol, and zinc, and is free of alcohol, artificial flavors, and harsh or dangerous chemicals. Its soothing mint flavor from natural menthol and peppermint oil will leave your mouth feeling clean and refreshed for up to 12 hours.
Pros
- Controls plaque buildup
- Suitable for sensitivity
- Free of dyes and fluoride
- Safe to use by children above two years of age
- No-burn formula
Cons
- Contains sulfate and saccharin
- Some may not like the flavor
"I got this mouthwash after a dental procedure, but it has quickly become an everyday staple. Although efficient, it does not sting and keeps my teeth and gums clean for a long time. Overall, it has been a reliable, alcohol-free option."
9. Best For Long-Term Use: Triology Restoring Rinse
The Trilogy mouthwash is a suitable remedy for those experiencing oral issues such as gingivitis, mouth sores, inflammation, bleeding gums, and the associated pain. This professional-grade mouthwash is formulated with organic ingredients like wheatgrass, aloe, and over 20 essential oils and is safe for use by children as well. Additionally, this mouthwash promotes good oral hygiene and is effective for eliminating dry mouth, tooth sensitivity, and bad breath when included in daily routine. It comes in an 8-ounce bottle, offering long-lasting usage while restoring your oral health to its best state.
Pros
- Minty flavor offers freshness
- No flouride
- No artificial colors or sweeteners
- Gluten- and alcohol-free
- Rich in antioxidants
Cons
- Contains nut oil which may be allergenic to some
- May stain your teeth
"I got this mouthwash at my dentist's recommendation, and its results have been impressive. It improved my gum health and breath without affecting the good bacteria. I found it to be a little pricey, but its efficiency and a small amount of product going a long way have made it a repeat buy."
10. Best Fluoride-Free: Zane Hellas Mouthwash
The mouthwash is a unique blend of herbal extracts and natural ingredients such as Greek oregano oil and mastic tree oil which work together to support oral health, making it one of the best anti-gingivitis natural remedies. This affordable solution takes care of a lot of symptoms like sensitive gums, bad breath, gingivitis, and plaque and improves your dental health. Carvacrol, which is the main compound in oregano oil, is extracted through steam distillation which retains its curative properties. It supports the normal flora of the oral cavity, promotes gum and enamel health, controls tartar, and offers relief from pain caused by swollen and bleeding gums.
Pros
- Made of herbal ingredients
- Alcohol- and fluoride-free
- Vegan formula
- Contains no artificial flavors or fragrances
- Easy-to-use dropper
Cons
- Slightly burning formula
- Some may experience dryness
"This mouthwash has come in handy for everything from minor cuts to small sores. Its natural formulation also offers peace of mind. Initially, I was taken aback by its intense sensations and taste, but now I enjoy that refreshing boost in the morning."
Did you know?11. Best For Fighting Plaque: Listerine Freshburst Antiseptic Mouthwash
Protect your mouth from gingivitis, bad breath, and germs, and get fresh breath with this mouthwash for gum health. Its powerful antiseptic formula is clinically proven to kill 99.9% of germs that cause gingivitis, bad breath, and plaque, for a cleaner and fresher mouth, making it one of the best anti-gingivitis over-the-counter remedies. This mouthwash reaches every corner of your mouth, including between your teeth and along the gum line. It is one of the nationally branded mouthwashes to be awarded the ADA Seal of Acceptance for fighting gingivitis and plaque. It has a spearmint flavor that leaves your mouth feeling tingly fresh. For better oral hygiene, use this refreshing mouthwash for 30 seconds during morning and night.
Pros
- Antiseptic and antimicrobial
- Offers 24-hour protection against germs
- Promotes healthy gums
- Prevents periodontal disease
- Formulated with four essential oils
Cons
- Some may find it too strong
- May not be a burn-free formula
"The classic formula of Listerine leaves my mouth feeling clean and invigorated. It took me some time to get used to its strong flavor, but now I can't even think of switching to another mouthwash. Moreover, the antiseptic properties have helped keep gum irritations at bay."
How To Choose The Right Mouthwash For Gingivitis?
Keep the following factors in mind when choosing a mouthwash for Gingivitis.
- Alcohol vs. non-alcohol mouthwash: Alcohol does a great job killing germs and bacteria that are responsible for plaque buildup and gingivitis. This reduces bad breath but it unfortunately kills the good bacteria in your mouth as well, while also drying out your mouth. This eventually contributes to bad breath and more bacterial growth. Alcohol mouthwashes also can cause a burning sensation in the mouth which may be unpleasant for those with tooth and gum sensitivity. Sometimes, the burning sensation may cause you to spit out the mouthwash earlier than recommended which can limit its effect.
Alcohol-free mouthwashes target the germs responsible for gingivitis and plaque. They do not affect normal saliva production, which is crucial for oral health. It’s also gentler for those with sensitive teeth and gums, while eliminating gingivitis-causing bacteria. Such mouthwashes are also a good choice if you have children in the family and you want to buy one type of mouthwash for the whole family.
2. Condition-specific mouthwash: Depending on what your dental issue is, like whether you are prone to a dry mouth, sensitive teeth, or canker sores, you should get a mouthwash that specifically caters to it. Mouthwashes with fluoride strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. For gum issues, go for one with anti-gingivitis, antiplaque, antimicrobial, or antibacterial ingredients. Chlorhexidine mouthwashes are the best for gingivitis as they are antibacterial, but they may not necessarily fight bad breath, and can also cause staining and alter the taste of the mouth. Some mouthwashes are more specific to whitening teeth and tackling bad breath.
3. Sensitivity of gums: Some may be sensitive to certain ingredients in a mouthwash if they have sensitive gums or if they are recovering from a dental procedure. If so, you should go for an alcohol-free or natural mouthwash with chamomile or aloe vera as they are soothing.
4. Read the label: Most mouthwashes have other chemicals to give it a minty or cool color, or to increase their shelf life. Make sure you read the label carefully so that you know exactly what you are putting into your mouth and don’t suffer an adverse reaction. Many also include water-soluble cleansing agents like sodium benzoate and sodium lauryl sulfate that are supposed to loosen the residue on your teeth, but are not considered safe. Artificial flavoring doesn’t contribute to the effectiveness of the mouthwash and may have adverse reactions. Preservatives like sodium benzoate or methylparaben prevent the growth of bacteria in the mouthwash but don’t contribute to its effectiveness and can be harmful for your body.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can mouthwash get rid of gingivitis?
Yes, mouthwash can help reverse gingivitis if it is not due to nutritional deficiency. In addition, antiseptic mouthwashes infused with chlorhexidine can minimize the build-up of dental plaque (1).
2. Can I use mouthwash every day?
Yes, you can use mild mouthwash for daily use. It helps in minimizing plaque build-up. However, limit the use to only once per day. Also, consult a dentist before using mouthwash regularly.
3. Should I rinse after using mouthwash?
No, you need not rinse your mouth after using a mouthwash, as the fluoride that helps protect your teeth may take some time to take action.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poor oral hygiene can lead to gingivitis. To keep your teeth and gums healthy, Vibha Navarathna, our in-house writer and reviewer, has listed some of the best mouthwashes for gingivitis. She has specifically chosen those mouthwashes that are made of safe ingredients to improve your oral health. These products have been chosen after considering user reviews to offer you an unbiased opinion. Besides, Vibha has also included a buying guide to help you choose the right product.
For those struggling with gingivitis, you will need more than just the usual daily brushing and flossing routine and visits to the dentist. The best mouthwashes can help eliminate inflammation caused by bacteria or plaque accumulation. The best mouthwashes for gingivitis above are loaded with antibacterial components to neutralize the decay process. Before buying one, check if the ingredients do not go hard on your teeth and gums and are made to suit a specific dental condition. With such a mouthwash as a part of your oral healthcare routine, you can now smile confidently and say goodbye to poor oral health.
Infographics: How To Keep Gingivitis At Bay?
Gingivitis is a common oral problem that causes inflamed gums. It could spread to other parts, including the soft tissues and bones of the teeth. However, you can easily prevent it by following a few oral health measures. Read the following infographic to learn various steps you can take to prevent gingivitis.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
References
- Gingivitis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557422/ - Efficacy of Oregano Essential Oil Mouthwash in Reducing Oral Halitosis: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial
https://www.jrmds.in/articles/efficacy-of-oregano-essential-oil-mouthwash-in-reducing-oral-halitosis-a-randomized-doubleblind-clinical-trial-70248.html
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Read full bio of Dr. Farayi Shakespeare Moyana
