10 Best Mouthwashes for Bad Breath in 2022 (Dental Hygienist-Reviewed)
Bad morning breath or just overall bad breath is something that most of us try to avoid. Despite that, it is still a fairly common problem that people deal with today. While some of it might simply be due to eating stinky foods like garlic or anchovies, there are also conditions like halitosis that can be a struggle for some. Aside from taking care of your oral health with regular brushing and flossing, using a good mouthwash can also help.
After scouring reviews and doing our research, we've prepared a 10 Best list and a buying guide to help you find your perfect mouthwash, starting with our favorite, TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse. Dental hygienist Jaeyoung Yoo also contributed some tips to help you take care of your teeth and choose what to buy! Read on for more.
Quick List - Top Mouthwashes for Bad Breath
Jaeyoung is an oral health educator and dental disease preventer passionate about paving the way for patients to embark on their journey to proper oral hygiene. She graduated from UNC School of Dentistry in 2018 and served on the UNC SOD SPURGEON Student Government. She's always trying to keep up with new dental research articles and products to help her patients choose compatible products that work with their lifestyles. She's also a coffee lover and mom to two Bengal cats and multiple plants!
mybest US' editing team consists of experienced members who have backgrounds in writing, editing, translation, and more. We are dedicated to researching what makes a product or service the best to users in the US in order to create top-quality articles. From skincare, to kitchen appliances, and to DIY supplies, our mission is to find the best ones for you.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- How to Use Mouthwash the Right Way
- Precautions to Take When Using Mouthwash
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can mouthwash help periodontal disease?
- Do I need to use mouthwash if I've already brushed and flossed my teeth?
- Jaeyoung's Recommended Mouthwashes
- Take Care of the Rest of Your Body with These Great Products
- Amazon's Best Selling Mouthwashes
How to Choose a Mouthwash for Bad Breath - Buying Guide
When buying a mouthwash, it's not as easy as just picking up the first bottle you come across. Contrary to what you might think, there is a big variety among mouthwashes, and this includes their use and effects.
Address Bad Breath Issues With Antimicrobrial Ingredients
Since bad breath is almost always caused by bacteria and other living organisms inside your mouth, you'll benefit from choosing a mouthwash with antimicrobial ingredients such as CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride). Not only will these compounds eliminate the microorganisms that cause bad breath, but they bolster gum health as well.
More and more commercial mouthwashes have begun to use antimicrobial ingredients to target the root of bad breath issues. There are still mouthwashes that provide a fresh, cleansing taste without getting rid of any bacteria. These are called cosmetic mouthwashes.
Therapeutic mouthwashes are where you'll find antimicrobial ingredients. They also provide targeted treatments for dental issues such as dry mouth, gingivitis, plaque build-up, and more. You can buy most types of therapeutic mouthwashes over the counter, but you may need a prescription for some brands.
Cosmetic mouthwashes are slowly beginning to fade away. Most mouth rinses on the market are focusing on therapeutic rinses.
I recommended therapeutic mouthwashes daily depending on my patient's concerns. Some patients complain of sensitivity from root exposure, bad breath, dry mouth, bleeding gums, or other concerns. There are different ingredients in mouth rinses that target those concerns.
Look for Additional Benefits to Strengthen Your Teeth as Well
The effects of mouthwash are largely dependent its ingredients. That's why it's a good idea to keep an eye out for mouthwashes with certain ingredients that will help with your specific concerns.
Fluoride Helps Treat and Prevent Tooth Decay
Fluoride is generally found in toothpaste, but you can also find it in many mouthwashes. It can help treat and prevent gum issues, as well as tooth decay. If you are suffering from plaque build-up and gingivitis, a mouthwash containing fluoride can help.
Fluoride is found in many toothpastes, mouth rinses, and floss. Fluoride works to fight the acids that cause cavities produced by bacteria and also remineralizes root and teeth structures. For patients who have fluoride sensitivity and allergies, they should actively ensure to avoid this ingredient.
Essential Oils Have Antifungal and Antibacterial Properties
There are many mouthwashes that contain compounds of essential oils. Popular essential oils used in oral care include tea tree oil, thyme, menthol, myrrh, and eucalyptus. These oils have natural antifungal and antibacterial properties and can help fight off gum inflammation and plaque.
My patients who receive scaling and root planing procedures always walk out with a bottle of the TG Tonic. TG Tonic also works well with patients who have dry mouth, mouth sores, and chronic halitosis (bad breath). This mouth rinse is alcohol-free and nonstaining.
Gotu kola and echinacea, which are anti-inflammatory herbs and pure essential oils of lavender and eucalyptus, are known for their healing properties and are the main elements in this rinse. Peppermint, red thyme, and cinnamon bark are also included in this rinse. A study found that peppermint, tea tree, and thyme oil can act as an effective antiseptic solution to oral pathogens.
Carbamide Peroxide or Hydrogen Peroxide Helps Whiten Teeth
Why not whiten your teeth while you're controlling your bad breath? While you generally won't be able to see the change immediately, you should be able to see some whitening results as early as about 5 weeks after you start using your mouthwash.
Diluted hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide can help whiten teeth if used correctly. Make sure you never swallow it, though! Undiluted hydrogen peroxide can burn your organs and cause internal bleeding.
You can combine one part of 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts water to have a final mix of 1% hydrogen peroxide and gargle for 60 seconds. Because of its antibacterial properties, gargling with hydrogen peroxide may also help a sore throat.
A study done in 2015 found that hydrogen peroxide rinses need to be used repeatedly over a few months to have a lasting effect. Some patients may experience inflammation around the gums. Call your dentist or doctor immediately if the redness doesn't go away or if you start to throw up or feel dizzy.
Avoid Alcohol if You're Sensitive or Share Your Mouthwash With Kids
Alcohol is a common ingredient in many commercial mouthwashes. If you have an alcohol sensitivity, it can cause burning or pain while you're rinsing your mouth. In addition, health experts warn that children under the age of six shouldn't use alcoholic mouthwashes.
Whether you're choosing a product for your family or just want to avoid alcohol yourself, we recommend reading the ingredients and considering whether you've had a history of topical sensitivity to alcohol. There are plenty of alcohol-free mouthwashes available. They're just as effective as rinses that contain alcohol, and will also help if you suffer from dry mouth issues.
Some people cannot handle the alcohol in mouth rinses. For example, when I use a mouthwash with alcohol, it burns my cheeks and gums.
I prefer to use a mouth rinse without alcohol such as the Alcohol-Free Listerine Total Care or Alcohol-Free Listerine Sensitivity. Some people who have an addiction to alcohol should not use rinses containing alcohol. For young children, I recommend the Act Kids Anticavity Fluoride (alcohol-free) rinse for children.
10 Best Mouthwashes for Bad Breath
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse｜Mild Mint, 2 pack | | Best for Severe Cases of Bad Breath | |
2 | Listerine Ultraclean Antiseptic｜Cool Mint | | Best for Everyday Mouth Cleanliness | |
3 | Biotene Fresh Mint | | Best for Bad Breath Problems Caused by a Dry Mouth | |
4 | Act Iced Sweet Mint | | Best for Preventing Cavities | |
5 | TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse w/ Added CPC｜Clean Mint | | Antimicrobial Protection in a Clean Mint Formula | |
6 | Colgate Hydramint | | Best for a Fresh Feeling | |
7 | CloSYS Gentle Mint | | Best for Sensitive Mouths | |
8 | ACT Dry Mouth Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash｜2 pack | | Best for Treating Dry Mouth Symptoms | |
9 | Listerine Spearmint | | Best for Killing Bad Breath Causing Germs | |
10 | CankAid | | Best for Sore Mouths |
TheraBreathFresh Breath Oral Rinse ｜ Mild Mint, 2 pack
Best for Severe Cases of Bad Breath
Pros:
- Doesn't sting the mouth since it's alcohol-free
- Combats sulfur-producing bacteria with essential oils
- Contains castor oil to prevent cavity and gum infection
Cons:
- Doesn't tackle other types of causes of bad breath like dry mouth
Recommended by dentists, this formula is very effective at treating even the most severe cases of bad breath for up to 24 hours if used correctly. As a bonus, the mouthwash is certified vegan and certified kosher.
Users praised this mouthwash for its effective treatment of bad breath. However, some reported a metallic aftertaste. Nevertheless, they agreed that the mouthwash left their mouths pretty clean without any sort of burning sensation.
Best for Everyday Mouth Cleanliness
Pros:
- Has sorbitol that manages tartar and plaque buildup
- Helps maintain healthy gums by cleaning them thoroughly
- Contains menthol that soothes pain and kills germs that cause gingivitis
Cons:
- Contains alcohol that may sting some users
Listerine is a popular brand worldwide and for good reason. This formula offers you a full mouth treatment of the likes that can only be topped by a visit to the dentist.
The formula contains active ingredients that fight bacteria and prevent plaque build-up and tooth decay, while at the same time making sure you maintain a minty fresh breath. It does contain alcohol, though, so be prepared for some sting.
Best for Bad Breath Problems Caused by a Dry Mouth
Pros:
- Hydrates the mouth with glycerine and sodium phosphate
- Combats bad breath with bacteria-eliminating sodium benzoate
- The addition of purified water that creates a neutral mouthwash helps balance the pH of the mouth
Cons:
- Addresses bad breath only when caused by a dry mouth
This mouthwash addresses dry mouth problems that result in bad breath. It freshens the mouth and soothes dry mouth symptoms. It can also be used alongside other products that maintain dental hygiene.
Reviewers said this mouthwash helped address their bad breath problems that were a result of their chronic dry mouth problems. However, some users commented that the hydrating effects only last for a few hours. Nevertheless, users praised its effectiveness in easing dry mouth symptoms.
Best for Preventing Cavities
Pros:
- Contains fluoride for strong teeth
- Includes cetylpyridinium chloride to prevent cavities and combat bad breath caused by germs
- Does not contain alcohol
Cons:
- Does not address gum-related issues
This mouthwash addresses cavity prevention and attacks bacteria that cause bad breath. It's also a fluoride wash that takes care of the health and remineralization of your teeth.
Users liked that this mouthwash did not sting when gargled. However, some users did not like how sweet this mouthwash tasted. They liked that it gave a clean feeling without being too strong for sensitive mouths.
Antimicrobial Protection in a Clean Mint Formula
TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash is a dentist-formulated, alcohol-free solution that supports oral hygiene and promotes gum health. Its use of cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), an antimicrobial agent, is formulated to help reduce plaque and combat gingivitis. The clean mint flavor provides a pleasant, refreshing aftertaste, while the absence of alcohol helps minimize dryness. Packaged in 16 fl oz bottles and often sold in a 2-pack, this mouthwash can be conveniently integrated into a daily oral care routine.
Best for a Fresh Feeling
Pros:
- Effects last up to four hours
- Contains glycerin to address dry mouth symptoms that lead to bad breath
- Reduces gingivitis-causing bacteria with cetylpyridinium chloride
Cons:
- Does not contain fluoride
This Colgate mouthwash gives a refreshing feel and hydrates the mouth. It contains ingredients that kill germs that cause bad breath and gingivitis.
Users found that it keeps their breath fresh and effectively hydrates their mouths. But, some users mentioned that the mint flavor was too strong and it stung when gargled. Still, many agreed that it leaves a clean taste in their mouths.
Best for Sensitive Mouths
Pros:
- Does not sting since it contains no alcohol
- The addition of purified water dilutes the mouthwash, making it gentle on sensitive mouths
- Kills germs that cause bad breath with cloralstan
Cons:
- Does not contain fluoride for gum health
The CloSYS mouthwash is great for people with sensitive mouths. It is alcohol-free, meaning it does not have a burning sensation when used. It also has a subtle mint flavor for a fresh feeling. It is also dye-free and sulfate-free, keeping sensitivity in mind.
Users have praised this mouthwash for being gentle and not stinging their mouths. However, some users were wary because of bleach being an active ingredient in this mouthwash. Despite this, reviewers praised this for its effectiveness in getting rid of bad breath.
ACTDry Mouth Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash ｜ 2 pack
Best for Treating Dry Mouth Symptoms
Pros:
- Contains fluoride for gum health
- Does not sting, alcohol-free
- Includes cetylpyridinium, which kills bacteria that cause bad breath
Cons:
- Does not contain menthol for soothing swelling
This mouth wash contains a formula that helps relieve and soothe dry mouth for hours at a time. At the same time, fluoride helps fight cavities and other issues that might come from dealing with a dry mouth.
Users commented on the great taste and how it made it much easier to use. They also warned other users to open the container slowly and carefully because it tended to spill out due to the bottle being so soft.
Best for Killing Bad Breath Causing Germs
Pros:
- Contains sorbitol to prevent tooth decay
- Has menthol, which eases swelling and kills bad breath causing germs
- With benzoic acid, it ensures a thorough rinse that kills remaining bacteria after brushing your teeth
Cons:
- Contains alcohol which may sting when gargled
This is an antiseptic mouthwash with a spearmint flavor. It targets germs that cause bad breath. It is an American Dental Association (ADA)-accepted mouthwash that leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh.
Most users have praised this mouthwash for keeping their mouths fresh. However, some of them said that this mouthwash stung because of its alcohol content. But, most agreed it was still the go-to mouthwash for them.
Best for Sore Mouths
Pros:
- Has sodium bicarbonate that prevents gum disease and tooth decay, which can lead to bad breath
- Contains sodium carbonate that causes an oxygenation effect that flushes out anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that cannot survive in high oxygen environments) that may infect the gums and mouth
- Includes magnesium trisilicate that relieves canker sore discomforts
Cons:
- Does not contain fluoride
This mouthwash relieves pain caused by canker sores and gum infections. It targets germs that cause bad breath and flushes out food particles that get stuck between teeth, ensuring a thorough clean and reducing the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Users commented that this mouthwash was gentle on their mouths. However, some criticized the effectiveness in healing canker sores, saying that it felt more like a cleanser and did not make much of a difference. Nevertheless, they liked the thorough cleansing it gave, targetting bacteria that caused bad breath and other discomforts.
How to Use Mouthwash the Right Way
Most mouthwashes have instructions printed on the label, but it's always good to know whether or not you're getting the most out of it, right? Here's the proper way to rinse your mouth with a mouthwash.
Don’t Use Mouthwash Directly after Brushing Your Teeth
There is a debate among experts about the best time and order to use floss and mouthwash. Some experts suggest that using a mouthwash before brushing your teeth can help loosen up plaque and other buildup, which in turn makes your mouth cleaner when you brush.
However, the downside to using mouth wash before brushing is that you will rinse out and brush away the helpful ingredients while you brush and thus limit the benefits of said mouthwash. That's probably why it's generally recommended to only use mouthwash after you have finished brushing your teeth.
You shouldn't use the mouthwash right away, though; give the toothpaste some time to do its thing first. By washing right away, you will wash out the fluoride and other beneficial properties of the toothpaste before they have had time to have any effect on your teeth. We recommend waiting around 30 minutes post-brush.
A trick I learned is after brushing your teeth, rinse with a mouth rinse instead of rinsing out the toothpaste with water to keep the fluoride on the teeth. When you rinse with water after brushing, you are washing away the fluoride that is beneficial to the teeth.
As a clinician, I know that realistically most people are not going to wait around 30 minutes post brush to use a mouth rinse. But I do recommend that patients rinse with mouth rinse after brushing; they can also put the rinse in their Waterpik for additional cleanliness.
Always Use the Line inside the Mouthwash Cap to Measure the Correct Amount
Most mouthwashes come with a measuring cup for your mouthwash, or you can use the cap of the bottle to measure your mouthwash. Always follow the directions on the bottle in regard to the amount of mouthwash you should use. This is generally not more than about five tablespoons. If you look carefully inside the cap, you should see a line that indicates how much you should use.
Using the correct amount of mouthrinse will help optimize the benefits and purpose of the rinse.
Swish and Gargle for 30 Seconds before Spitting it out
After measuring out the right amount, empty the liquid into your mouth and swish it around. Make sure to reach all areas of your mouth, then gargle to make sure that the mouth wash reaches the back of your throat as well.
When 30 seconds is up, go ahead and spit it out. Don't wash your mouth out with water, but instead let the mouthwash do its thing and get absorbed into your teeth and gums.
Never swallow a mouthwash! While smaller amounts of mouthwash are harmless for an adult to consume, there are no benefits from swallowing the mouthwash and it's always best to spit it out.
Some mouthrinses recommend a 15, 30, or 60 seconds rinse time. Always read the directions to ensure that you are receiving the maximum benefits!
Precautions to Take When Using Mouthwash
If used correctly, a mouth wash is largely harmless, but it's still always a good idea to use precaution and make sure that you are using the mouth wash correctly. This will also ensure that the mouth wash has the desired effect in the long-run.
Look for an ADA Seal of Acceptance for Peace of Mind
By picking a mouthwash with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance (ADA), you are essentially making sure that you are picking a mouth wash that will do what it says it will. The seal also ensures that you are getting a safe product and not something that might cause harm to you or your teeth.
If you want the best mouth rinse out in the market, look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Just as multivitamins have the USP Verified Mark indicating the ingredients and their potency, the actual amount of different vitamins, the ADA Seal of Acceptance indicates that the product includes the ingredients listed and ensures the safety of the product.
Children Under the Age of Six Should Not Use Adult Mouthwash
Since mouth wash generally contains high levels of alcohol and fluoride, it is not recommended for small children under the age of six. Look instead for mouthwashes formulated specifically for kids, like the one listed in our ranking.
It's always a good idea to consult your child's physician when you're ready for them to use regular mouthwash. If your child accidentally or purposely swallows a large amount of mouthwash, we recommend seeking medical attention immediately.
Children under the age of six have a better chance of ingesting mouthwash. When a large amount is ingested, acute fluoride toxicity can occur which will need immediate medical attention. Poison control must be called and the child will need to have immediate medical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
In addition to reviewing our buying guide, Jaeyoung was kind enough to answer some commonly asked questions about mouthwash and dental health.
Can mouthwash help periodontal disease?
Jaeyoung says, "For patients who have periodontal disease, using mouthwash along with brushing two to three times a day and flossing nightly, is an essential step to getting their oral health back on track.
There are six types of periodontal disease: gingivitis, periodontitis, aggressive periodontitis, chronic periodontitis, systemic periodontitis, and necrotizing periodontal disease. The most common two that I see as a clinician are gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gingivitis is a reversible disease that occurs when the gums are inflamed, red, and bleed from tartar and plaque buildup. Periodontitis is irreversible and more complicated. The bone surrounding and keeping the tooth in place start to melt away eventually leading to tooth loss and deeper pockets.
Using mouthwash with fluoride will benefit patients and their oral health since it reaches areas that are harder to clean. People who have gum recession like me can use mouth rinses targeted towards root remineralization and blocking tubules in the dentin area of the tooth near the nerves."
Do I need to use mouthwash if I've already brushed and flossed my teeth?
Unlike your toothbrush or floss, mouthwash is able to reach every part of your mouth including hard-to-reach crevices. While mouthwash can never completely substitute the use of a toothbrush and floss, though, it is definitely a very helpful aid in improving your dental health.
Jaeyoung adds, "Mouthwash thoroughly reaches all areas in the mouth, but make sure you read the directions for the amount of time you should rinse and whether or not you can drink water immediately after.
If you use a mouthwash nightly, it can significantly enhance your oral hygiene. You may experience fresher breath, healthier gums, and see less tartar and plaque."
Jaeyoung's Recommended Mouthwashes
Jaeyoung recommended her favorite mouthwashes for bad breath in addition to her other work on this article. Check out the details below!
Jaeyoung recommends the Listerine Sensitivity mouth rinse paired with a Sensodyne toothpaste, saying, "I personally like this mouthwash and toothpaste combination. Just be aware that these products do take time to work because they build up protection the more they are used."
Take Care of the Rest of Your Body with These Great Products
You'll need a lot more than mouthwash to keep your body at its best. Here are some products to keep you in top shape.
Top 5 Mouthwashes for Bad Breath
No. 1: TheraBreath｜Fresh Breath Oral Rinse｜Mild Mint, 2 pack
No. 2: Listerine｜Ultraclean Antiseptic｜Cool Mint
No. 3: Biotene｜Fresh Mint
No. 4: Act｜Iced Sweet Mint
No. 5: TheraBreath｜Healthy Gums Oral Rinse w/ Added CPC｜Clean Mint
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Most ViewedFeatured Rankings Similar to Oral care products
Search by category
Health
Body care products, Health accessories, Health foods and supplementsBeauty
Blushes, Bronzers, CleansersHome goods
Bath supplies, Ceremonial occasion supplies, Cleaning suppliesHome electronics
Air conditioners and coolers, AV accessories, Blenders and food processorsPC
Computer supplies, Desktop computers, TabletsCamera
Camera bags and backpacks, Camera supplies, Digital single lens camerasFood and drinks
Jams and Jellies, Alcohol, BreadsKitchen
Coffee and tea products, Cooking utensils, CupsFashion
Footwear products, Men's shoes, SandalsAccessories
Wristwatches, Accessories and jewelry, Umbrellas and parasolsKids and baby
Baby carriers, Baby food, Baby formulaInterior
Beds, Beds and bedding, ChairsHobbies
Aromatherapy products, Art supplies, Arts and collectiblesOutdoor
Barbecue grills and fire pits, Camping beds and cots, Camping gearHome, garden, and tools
Agricultural materials and gardening supplies, Exterior and garden furniture, Materials and repairing agentsSports and fitness
Sports shoes, Surfing supplies, Badminton suppliesPets
Bird and small animal supplies, Cat Supplies, Dog SuppliesMedia
Books and magazines, CD, Children's books, picture books and illustrated encyclopediasGames
Gaming accessories, Nintendo Switch games, PC gamesApps
Business apps, Cooking apps, Dating appsAutomotive
Car accessories, Car navigation systemsGifts
Christmas gifts, Father's Day gifts, Gifts for childrenMobile devices
Mobile phone and smartphone accessories, Wearable devices and smart watches