The benefits of using mouthwash are plenty. Mouthwash prevents halitosis, the condition better known as bad breath. It also reaches in between teeth and braces to dislodge food particles in those hidden crevices that a toothbrush just can’t reach. What’s more, mouth rinse kills bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay. Therefore, it makes sense to add this product to your oral hygiene arsenal.
Buying the right mouthwash and other oral hygiene products can be a daunting and time-consuming task. The problem is that there are so many brands to choose from, each one promising to offer a superior product. So how do you make sense of it all?
The following top 10 best mouthwash for bad breath can help you make the right choice. Read on to discover some of the top mouthwash brands and dental care products on the market.
Table of Contents
10 Best Mouthwash for Bad Breath
1. TheraBreath Dentist Formulated Fresh Breath Oral Rinse
Dentists have been recommending TheraBreath oral rinses for over two decades. This brand offers a variety of choices, but the mint-flavored option with Xylitol natural sweetener is an excellent option for people who want a mouthwash formula that does not sting. Besides combating bad morning breath, TheraBreath oral rinse moisturizes the mouth. It works by oxygenating the oral cavity and removing sulfur-causing bacteria. Its main ingredient is OXYD-8, a proprietary formulation of sodium chlorite. What makes this mouthwash great is that it cleans the mouth without harsh chemicals. It is certified non-GMO and gluten free as well. There are different packages of mint TheraBreath oral rinse, which comes in either 16 or 32-ounce bottles.
2. 16Oz Oral Essentials Mouthwash
This mouthwash helps to maintain a good microbial balance in your mouth while at the same time promoting fresh breath. Oral Essentials blend their mouth rinse with ingredients like French essential oils, Dead Sea salt, organic Aloe Vera and natural sweetener. Formulated in California by some of the top dentists in the world, this mouthwash is clinically tested. It is a certified non-toxic product, so you can have the peace of mind knowing that no harmful chemicals will be getting into your mouth. Not only can Oral Essentials help you to beat bad breath, their product will also get rid of dryness in the mouth.
3. Crest 3D White Luxe Glamorous Multi-Care Whitening Mouthwash
Crest 3D offers a 3-in-1 oral rinse that whitens teeth, removes surface stains, and kills odor-causing bacteria. The company claims that you can have a white smile after just two days of using their mouthwash, toothpaste, and toothbrush. Regular use of the Crest 3D Mouthwash will keep your teeth stain free thanks to its Whitelock Technology. What’s more, the mouthwash has a mint aftertaste that leaves your breath smelling fresh.
4. Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash
If you are searching for an antimicrobial oral rinse with long-lasting action, look no further than Colgate’s Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash. One mouth rinse with this formulation will keep working for up to half a day. Its main ingredient is Cetylpyridinium Chloride, an ammonium-based cationic quaternary compound that fights plaque and germs known to cause gum inflammation. This non-alcoholic mouthwash does not burn. In addition to the Peppermint Blast option, you may opt to go with the Spearmint Surge or Wintermint Rush flavors.
5. Dr. Arenander’s BrainGain Formulas – Healthy Teeth & Gum MOUTHWASH
Has gum recession become the bane of your existence? You can have healthy gums again with this mouthwash from Dr. Arenader’s BrainGain Formulas. One of the active ingredients in this formulation is Aloe Vera. This plant is known to stimulate dermal tissue growth. As such, it replicates the same effect to restore your gums to a healthier state. The Healthy Teeth & Gum MOUTHWASH has a peppermint flavor with no alcohol. So, it does not have that burning sensation found in other mouthwashes. This is also a non-GMO certified organic mouthwash. Besides reversing periodontal disease, it has proven effective at eliminating dental plaque, tooth sensitivity, oral infections, and pain. To prevent contamination with toxins from plastic, the Healthy Teeth & Gum MOUTHWASH is stored in medical grade, lead-free glass bottles.
6. TheraBreath Sugar-Free Dentist Formulated Dry Mouth Lozenges
The TheraBreath Lozenges work in tandem with TheraBreath oral rinse to keep your mouth moist and devoid of bad odor. Other sugar-laced lozenges leave the mouth sticky. However, that won’t be a problem with these sugar-free lozenges. They have a refreshing mandarin citrus mint flavor that stimulates the salivary glands and eliminates bad breath. As with other TheraBreath oral products, these lozenges are Kosher verified and have zero artificial additives. Available options include the 24, 100 and 200 count packs, which cater for different budgets.
7. SmartMouth Clinical DDS 2-Bottle Activated Mouthwash with Pumps
SmartMouth Clinical DDS Mouthwash is a premium, alcohol-free oral rinse designed to provide 12-hour fresh breath and support gum health. Its dual-liquid activation system releases zinc ions to eliminate bad breath at the source while preventing gingivitis and bleeding gums. With a 4.6-star rating, users praise its effectiveness, though some find the two-bottle system inconvenient and the price higher than standard mouthwashes. Despite this, it’s a dentist-recommended option for those seeking long-lasting oral hygiene benefits.
Key Features
- Dual-Liquid Activation System: Combines two separate solutions to activate zinc ions, eliminating bad breath for up to 12 hours.
- Gingivitis & Gum Health Support: Helps prevent gum disease and bleeding.
- Alcohol-Free Formula: No burning sensation while rinsing.
- Recommended by Dentists: Helps with tartar buildup and long-term oral hygiene.
8. OraRestore All Natural Gum and Breath Treatment by Great Oral Health
OraRestore fights the root cause of bad breath, which is bacterial growth in the mouth. This mouth drop is a versatile liquid product. You can use it like mouthwash or toothpaste. Alternatively, just apply a few drops on teeth or gums to keep bacteria and halitosis at bay. This formulation of natural essential oils not only keeps your breath fresh but also helps to improve gum health. It has a nice vanilla-mint flavor for those who don’t like bitter oral rinses. Each dropper has a capacity of 15ml, which is small enough to carry while on the go.
9. The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Antigingivitis Mouthwash
The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Antigingivitis Mouthwash is an excellent choice for people who suffer from bleeding gums and bad breath. This natural mouthwash is made using 20% Aloe Vera along with other plant-based ingredients like Citric Acid, Echinacea, Vegetable Glycerin, and Pot Marigold, just to name a few. It is gentle on sensitive gums due to lack of alcohol. In addition, there are no artificial colors, preservatives or other harsh chemicals in this dentist-formulated mouthwash.
10. SmartMouth Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Formulated by Dr. Marvin Cohen, the SmartMouth Alcohol-free mouthwash is a clinically tested product that relies on zinc-ion technology. The zinc ions in this mouth rinse bind with surface proteins inside your mouth to prevent sulfur gas from being created. This mouthwash comes in two bottles, one containing a blue solution and another one with clear liquid. You have to mix both solutions to activate the zinc-ion properties. Once activated, the ingredients can keep your breath fresh for up to 12-hours.
How to Choose the Best Mouthwash for Bad Breath
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and frustrating to deal with. A high-quality mouthwash for bad breath can help by killing odor-causing bacteria, freshening your breath, and improving overall oral hygiene. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? This guide will help you find the best mouthwash for bad breath based on key factors like ingredients, effectiveness, and personal needs.
1. Look for Antibacterial Ingredients
One of the main causes of bad breath is bacteria in the mouth. To effectively combat halitosis, choose a mouthwash with antibacterial ingredients such as:
- Chlorhexidine: A powerful antimicrobial that kills bacteria and prevents plaque buildup.
- Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC): An antiseptic that reduces bacteria and freshens breath.
- Essential Oils (Eucalyptol, Thymol, Menthol): These natural compounds have antibacterial properties and leave a refreshing taste.
Avoid mouthwashes that only provide a temporary masking of odors without addressing the underlying bacteria.
2. Consider Alcohol-Free Options
Many mouthwashes contain alcohol (usually ethanol), which can help kill bacteria but may also cause dry mouth. Since dry mouth can worsen bad breath, alcohol-free options are often a better choice for long-term use. Benefits of alcohol-free mouthwashes include:
- Gentler on sensitive mouths and gums.
- Prevents excessive drying of the mouth.
- Safe for people who avoid alcohol for personal or medical reasons.
3. Choose a Mouthwash with Long-Lasting Effects
Some mouthwashes provide only temporary freshness, while others offer longer-lasting protection against bad breath. Look for mouthwashes with:
- Activated Oxygen (Chlorine Dioxide or Zinc Compounds): These neutralize sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.
- Fluoride: Helps strengthen teeth and prevent cavities while keeping your breath fresh.
- Xylitol: A natural sweetener that promotes saliva production, preventing dry mouth.
4. Address the Root Cause of Bad Breath
Bad breath can stem from various causes, and choosing the right mouthwash depends on identifying the issue:
- Dry Mouth: Choose a hydrating mouthwash with xylitol or aloe vera.
- Gum Disease: Look for antibacterial mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride.
- Strong Food Odors: Opt for essential oil-based mouthwashes for a refreshing, natural clean.
5. Read Customer Reviews and Expert Recommendations
Before purchasing a mouthwash, check customer reviews to see how well it works for bad breath. Consider the following:
- Does it provide long-lasting freshness?
- Is it gentle on the mouth, or does it cause irritation?
- Are there any reported side effects, such as dryness or a burning sensation?
6. Check for ADA Approval
The American Dental Association (ADA) evaluates oral care products for safety and effectiveness. A mouthwash with the ADA Seal of Acceptance has been tested and proven to be beneficial for oral health.
7. Consider Taste and Aftertaste
Mouthwash should not only be effective but also pleasant to use. Some people prefer strong minty flavors, while others may want a mild or natural taste. If you dislike the burning sensation of traditional mouthwashes, try:
- Alcohol-free formulas for a milder taste.
- Flavored options like cinnamon, tea tree, or herbal blends.
- Unflavored or lightly flavored mouthwashes for sensitive users.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mouthwash for bad breath depends on finding a formula that effectively kills bacteria, freshens breath, and suits your personal needs. Whether you prefer an alcohol-free option, an antibacterial formula, or a hydrating rinse for dry mouth, the right mouthwash can make a big difference in your oral health. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can find the perfect mouthwash to keep your breath fresh and your confidence high.