Many patients ask whether mouthwash, for example Listerine, is good for the mouth. The short answer is: A mouthwash may sometimes be a useful addition, but it never replaces brushing and cleaning. Which remedy is suitable depends on the purpose, your own teeth, your dentures, implants and any complaints such as a dry or sensitive mouth.
Is Listerine OK to Use?
Listerine is a brand with several types of mouthwash. The composition varies per product. Some variants contain fluoride, others are mainly intended for fresh breath or support for gum care. There are variants with and without alcohol.
You can use a normal mouth rinse according to the instructions for use if you find it comfortable and the oral mucosa is not irritated. Don't expect miracles: mouthwash does not remove stuck plaque and does not mechanically clean dentures, frames, implant-retained removable dentures or implants.
Our practical advice: Don't just choose based on the brand name or the fresh taste, but look at what the product is intended for. For a dry, burning or sensitive mouth, we usually recommend a mild, alcohol-free variant. Do you get a burning sensation, irritation, increased dryness or change in taste? Then stop and discuss it with us, your dentist or dental hygienist.
Mouthwash is a supplement, not a replacement
- Brush your own teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between the teeth with brushes, floss or toothpicks according to personal advice.
- Clean a removable denture daily with a denture brush.
- Also clean the implants, locators, stud attachments or bars of implant-retained removable dentures.
- Use mouthwash only as a supplement and follow the instructions for use.
- Do not swallow the rinse and keep it out of the reach of children.
Which type of mouthwash suits which purpose?
For fresh breath
Mouthwash can temporarily give you a fresher feeling, but can only briefly cover up bad breath. If the odor continues to return, plaque, a coated tongue, a dry mouth, inflamed gums, food remains under a denture or another cause may be a factor. Then examination is more useful than using increasingly stronger mouthwash.
With fluoride if there is an increased risk of cavities
A fluoride rinse may be useful if a person has an increased risk of cavities, for example due to a dry mouth, exposed tooth roots or difficult-to-clean teeth in addition to a partial denture. It remains a supplement to fluoride toothpaste. Do not rinse immediately after brushing with a product without fluoride, as you may wash away fluoride from the toothpaste. Follow the instructions for use and our personal advice.
With chlorhexidine for inflammation or after surgery
Chlorhexidine is a disinfectant that is usually temporary and targeted is used. For example, if brushing is difficult for a short time or after a treatment. Do not use it for months on your own initiative. It can discolour teeth, tongue, fillings and dentures brown, change the taste and make the oral mucosa feel dry or burning. Use it as explained by the dentist, dental hygienist, implantologist or pharmacist.
For a dry or sensitive mouth
Choose a mild, alcohol-free product specifically intended for dry mouth. A strongly irritating mouthwash can cause discomfort in the oral tissues. Water, a saliva substitute gel or a spray may sometimes be more suitable. On our page about a dry mouth read more.
Mouthwash for dentures or partial dentures
A mouthwash does not clean a denture. Remove the denture from the mouth and brush all surfaces with water and a suitable denture brush. Do not use regular toothpaste on the plastic, as it can be abrasive. Also clean the palate, tongue, gums and any teeth.
Do not place dentures, frames or implant-retained removable dentures in regular mouthwash for a long time. Some products may degrade or discolor plastic, metal, soft linings or mounting parts. Only use a denture cleaning agent that is suitable for your type of device and follow the instructions given to you by us.
Mouthwash for implants or implant-retained removable dentures
Removing plaque with a toothbrush, interdental brush or other suitable aid is also the most important step around implants. Mouthwash cannot rinse away plaque in hard-to-reach areas. Bleeding, red or swollen gums, pus, a bad taste, pain or a change in how an implant-retained denture attaches are reasons to contact us. Do not use a strong antiseptic for a long period on your own initiative.
When is it better to consult first?
- you have a persistently dry, burning or painful mouth;
- you have wounds, white spots, swelling or bleeding gums;
- you are taking multiple medications or have had radiation therapy in the head and neck area;
- you wear a frame, implant-retained removable denture, soft liner or other special device;
- you want to use chlorhexidine or another medicated rinse;
- you have bad breath that persists despite proper cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should everyone use mouthwash every day?
No. For many people, good brushing and cleaning is sufficient. Mouthwash can be a supplement if there is a clear purpose for it or if you like it.
Is a strong burning sensation a sign that it is working properly?
No. A burning or stinging sensation does not indicate that a product cleans better. If your mouth becomes irritated or feels drier, choose a milder product or stop and seek advice.
Can I rinse immediately after brushing my teeth?
Not every product is suitable for this. You can rinse away fluoride from the toothpaste with water or a mouthwash without fluoride. Read the instructions for use. In addition, components from toothpaste can influence the effect of chlorhexidine; therefore always follow the advice given.
Can mouthwash solve ill-fitting dentures?
No. Mouthwash does not solve a pressure sore, loose denture, incorrect bite or inflammation due to a fit problem. Have the mouth and dentures checked.
Resources and further information
This page provides general information. Personal advice depends on your mouth, medications, own teeth, prosthesis and any implants.