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the inflammation of the gums).

Best Mouthwashes a collage of Quip Boka and Moon mouthwashes on a pink background

Collage: Laneen Wells; Source images: Courtesy of brands

The golden order, by the way, is mouthwash, floss, and your toothbrush.

“It’s very mild and non-irritating to the tissue while killing harmful bacteria.”

This mouthwash contains fluoride to strengthen teeth while menthol leaves behind a minty-fresh taste in your mouth.

Listerine Total Care Zero Alcohol bottle of pink body wash with black cap on light gray background

Free from alcohol, it offers a refreshing cleanse without harshness, making it suitable for sensitive mouths.

The main ingredient in this under-$10 formula is cetylpyridinium chloride, which provides antiplaque benefits.

Its apothecary-style bottle holds a cocktail of peppermint-spiked mouthwash guaranteed to leave you with better-smelling breath.

CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash white and teal bottle and box on light gray background

This concoction also containsglycerin, a humectant that prevents dry mouth.

This formula contains mouth-loving ingredients, including fluoride, cetylpyridinium chloride, and xylitol.

The experts agree, too.

TheraBreath Fresh Breath Mouthwash two blue and white bottles of mouthwash with orange caps on light gray background

Dr. Goldman adds that the two types of mouthwashes provide different purposes.

Which ingredients are found in mouthwashes?

The key to a high-performing mouthwash is in its active ingredients.

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash blue bottle of mouthwash with gray cap on light gray background

“Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay,” says Dr. Wei.

“It is often added to mouthwashes for its remineralization properties.”

Dr. Sands says antimicrobial ingredients cetylpyridinium chloride and chlorhexidine pop up often, too.

ACT Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash bottle of blue mouthwash on light gray background

“Alcohol-based mouthwashes can be harsh on the mouth and may cause dryness,” he explains.

“Consider using an alcohol-free mouthwash for a gentler but still effective cleanse.”

How do I get the deepest cleanse out of my mouthwash?

A blue mouthwash bottle filled with Colgate Total Mouthwash on a light gray background

He says to avoid rinsing with water immediately to allow the mouthwash to continue working.

Should I add mouthwash to my electric flosser?

You may have seenTikTokersadding mouthwash to theirelectric flossersbut Dr. Sands, Dr. Goldman,andDr.

Moon Oral Care Charcoal Mouth Rinse black bottle on light gray background

Wei call this so-called hack unnecessary and potentially damaging to your expensive equipment.

Lesson learned: Don’t trust everything on your FYP, especially when it comes to medical advice.

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Marvis Mouthwash bottle of green mouth wash with white cap on light gray background

Quip Mouthwash Starter Kit rose gold refillable container of mouthwash and white box on light gray background

Boka Restore Mouthwash Tablets lavender jar on light gray background