Top 10 Mouthwashes & Rinses for Your Mouth and Teeth

-- Dental Country Editors

woman holding mouthwash

Table 1: Comparison of Mouthwashes and Rinses by Active Ingredients

ProductFluoridePeroxideChlorhexidineAlcohol-freeADA Seal of Acceptance
Listerine® Antiseptic MouthwashNoNoNoNoYes
Listerine® Total Care Zero™ Anticavity MouthwashYesNoNoYesNo
Listerine® Total Care Anticavity MouthwashYesNoNoYesNo
EverSmile® PreOp™ 3.8% Hydrogen Peroxide Pretreatment RinseNoYesNoNoNo
Nupro® Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.12% Oral RinseNoNoYesNoNo
ACT® Kids’ Alcohol-Free Anticavity Fluoride RinseYesNoNoYesNo
Fresh Breath Lemon Mint MouthwashNoNoNoYesNo
Crest® Pro-Health™ Extra Deep Clean RinseNoNoNoYesNo
CLoSYS® Oral RinseNoNoNoYesNo
Listerine® Sensitivity Zero Alcohol MouthwashNoNoNoYesYes

Table 2: Comparison of Mouthwashes and Rinses by Important Features

ProductMain benefitsClinical studiesRecommended forOther features
Listerine® Antiseptic MouthwashReduce plaque and gingivitis, ADA Seal of AcceptanceShown to reduce 52% more plaque and 21% more gingivitisFighting plaque and gingivitis, fresh breathWidely used and extensively researched
Listerine® Total Care Zero™ Anticavity MouthwashPrevent cavities, restore enamel, strengthen teeth, kill bad breath germs, freshen breath and fight unsightly plaque above the gum line.All patients, especially those prone to cavities and sensitivityProtects teeth enamel and fights plaque
Listerine® Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash50% stronger teeth than brushing alone, prevents cavities, restores minerals to enamel, strengthens teeth, kills bad breath germs, freshens breath, cleans the whole mouthPatients with weak teeth, prone to cavities and sensitivityPromotes healthy teeth and mouth
EverSmile® PreOp™ 3.8% Hydrogen Peroxide Pretreatment RinseDisinfects, cleans, and debrides the entire oral cavity prior to dental treatments.Kills human coronavirus in 15 seconds, exceeds ADA recommendationPatients undergoing dental treatmentsIncreases safety for patients and professionals
Nupro® Chlorhexidine Gluconate 0.12% Oral RinseAt-home therapy for gingivitis and periodontal diseaseControls bacteria, helps hasten the recovery of gingival irritation and bleedingPatients with gingivitis and periodontal diseasePromotes faster gingival healing
ACT® Kids’ Alcohol-Free Anticavity Fluoride RinsePrevents cavities in children

Top 10 Regular Toothpastes


1. Listerine® Antiseptic Mouthwash by Johnson & Johnson

Top 10 mouthwashes & rinses for your mouth and teeth

Product Description

Listerine Antiseptic is the only nationally branded antimicrobial mouthwash to receive the ADA Seal of Acceptance for its effectiveness in fighting plaque and gingivitis. It was shown in clinical studies to reduce 52% more plaque and 21% more gingivitis than brushing and flossing alone.

Product Overview

With a proven track record and professional endorsement, Listerine Antiseptic offers superior gum health benefits. It is recommended for daily use to help prevent gingival inflammation and maintain oral hygiene above the gumline.

Key Features

  • Reduces plaque by 52% and gingivitis by 21% more than brushing and flossing alone
  • ADA Seal of Acceptance for fighting plaque and gingivitis
  • Backed by over 100 years of safe use and 50 years of research
  • Antimicrobial formula for daily gum health support
  • Widely recommended by dental professionals

Common Applications

  • Daily plaque and gingivitis prevention
  • Adjunct to brushing and flossing
  • Maintaining oral hygiene above the gumline
  • Long-term gum health maintenance

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Antiseptic Mouthwash
Form: Liquid Rinse
Active Function: Antimicrobial (plaque and gingivitis control)
ADA Accepted: Yes
Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson
Brand: Listerine®

Customer Ratings

4.9 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Trusted product with noticeable results
Strong but effective—helps keep gums healthy
ADA-approved and dentist recommended

5 Best Dry Mouth Gum Brands


2. Listerine® Total Care Zero™ Anticavity Mouthwash by Johnson & Johnson

Listerine® total care zero™ anticavity mouthwash - johnson & johnson

Product Description

This zero-alcohol mouthwash offers a milder taste while delivering comprehensive oral care. It combines cavity-fighting fluoride with powerful antimicrobial action to help protect enamel, eliminate bad breath germs, and reduce plaque buildup above the gumline.

Product Overview

Formulated for patients seeking a complete rinse with a gentler experience, Listerine Total Care Zero is ideal for daily use. It supports long-term dental health by reinforcing tooth enamel and maintaining fresh breath.

Key Features

  • Six oral health benefits in one rinse
  • Helps prevent cavities and restore enamel
  • Strengthens teeth with fluoride
  • Kills germs that cause bad breath
  • Fights plaque above the gumline
  • Alcohol-free formula with a milder taste

Common Applications

  • Daily cavity prevention
  • Enamel protection and remineralization
  • Fresh breath and germ control
  • Plaque reduction and oral hygiene maintenance

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
Form: Liquid Rinse
Active Ingredients: Sodium Fluoride (fluoride-based protection)
Alcohol Content: Zero Alcohol
Flavor: Mild taste (varies by variant)
Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson
Brand: Listerine® Total Care Zero™

Customer Ratings

4.8 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Great all-in-one mouthwash without the burn
Leaves mouth clean and fresh
Helps protect enamel while keeping breath fresh


3. Listerine® Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash by Johnson & Johnson

Listerine® total care anticavity mouthwash - johnson & johnson

Product Description

Clinically shown to make teeth 50% stronger than brushing alone, Listerine Total Care helps prevent cavities and enhances enamel health. It kills germs that cause bad breath, freshens breath, and supports whole-mouth cleanliness with every use.

Product Overview

This all-in-one mouthwash is ideal for patients seeking maximum cavity prevention and enamel support. Its multi-benefit formula is suitable for daily use and complements regular brushing and flossing routines.

Key Features

  • Strengthens teeth by 50% more than brushing alone
  • Helps prevent cavities with added fluoride
  • Remineralizes and protects enamel
  • Kills germs that cause bad breath
  • Freshens breath
  • Cleans the entire mouth

Common Applications

  • Daily cavity prevention
  • Enamel remineralization and strengthening
  • Whole-mouth cleaning
  • Long-lasting fresh breath

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
Form: Liquid Rinse
Active Ingredient: Sodium Fluoride
Flavor: Varies by variant (typically Mint)
Alcohol Content: May contain alcohol (verify per variant)
Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson
Brand: Listerine® Total Care

Customer Ratings

4.9 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Teeth feel stronger and cleaner
Effective and refreshing—my go-to mouthwash
Great daily rinse with complete benefits


4. EverSmile® PreOp™ 3.8% Hydrogen Peroxide by Everbrands Inc

Eversmile® preop™ 3. 8% hydrogen peroxide pretreatment rinse – 100 doses, 16 oz bottle - everbrands inc

Product Description

Formulated with 3.8% hydrogen peroxide, EverSmile PreOp kills human coronavirus in just 15 seconds and is ideal for improving both patient and provider safety. It is used before dental treatments to reduce microbial load, ensuring a cleaner clinical environment.

Product Overview

This advanced pretreatment rinse surpasses the ADA’s 1.5% hydrogen peroxide guideline, providing enhanced protection and peace of mind for routine dental care. It is safe, effective, and suitable for all patient types.

Key Features

  • 3.8% hydrogen peroxide formula for superior disinfection
  • Kills human coronavirus in 15 seconds
  • Cleans and debrides the full oral cavity
  • Exceeds ADA pretreatment rinse recommendations
  • Enhances safety for both patients and dental professionals
  • Ideal for use before any dental treatment

Common Applications

  • Pre-procedural rinse for infection control
  • Disinfection prior to cleanings, restorations, and surgery
  • Oral cavity debridement
  • Patient safety enhancement in clinical settings

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Pretreatment Disinfectant Rinse
Active Ingredient: 3.8% Hydrogen Peroxide
Form: Liquid Rinse
Function: Cleaning, disinfection, debridement
ADA Recommendation: Exceeds 1.5% H₂O₂ guideline
Manufacturer: Everbrands Inc
Brand: EverSmile® PreOp™

Customer Ratings

4.8 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Fast-acting and effective—provides confidence before procedures
Great for infection control in busy practices
Tastes clean and leaves mouth feeling fresh


5. Nupro® Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Nupro® chlorhexidine gluconate 0. 12% oral rinse, 16 oz

Product Description

Formulated with 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate, this rinse helps control oral bacteria and accelerates the healing of irritated and bleeding gums. It is especially effective following scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery, promoting faster tissue recovery between dental visits.

Product Overview

Nupro Chlorhexidine Rinse is recommended by dental professionals as an adjunctive therapy for patients with moderate to severe gingivitis. Its antimicrobial properties provide consistent support for gum health during critical healing phases.

Key Features

  • Contains 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate
  • Controls bacteria to reduce gingival inflammation and bleeding
  • Aids healing after periodontal procedures
  • Ideal for use following scaling and root planing
  • Designed for at-home use between professional treatments

Common Applications

  • Management of gingivitis and periodontal disease
  • Post-scaling and root planing recovery
  • Healing support after periodontal surgery
  • Daily gingival care under professional supervision

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Prescription Antimicrobial Oral Rinse
Active Ingredient: 0.12% Chlorhexidine Gluconate
Form: Liquid Rinse
Use: At-home adjunct therapy
Recommended Use: Post-operative, periodontal support
Manufacturer: Dentsply Sirona
Brand: Nupro®

Customer Ratings

4.9 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Reduces gum bleeding quickly
Excellent for post-op care and maintenance
Easy to use at home between visits


6. ACT® Kids’ Alcohol-Free Anticavity Fluoride Rinse by Chattem Inc

Act® kids' alcohol-free anticavity fluoride rinse - chattem inc

Product Description

Formulated without alcohol, ACT Kids’ Rinse is safe and easy to use daily. It helps reduce the risk of cavities, prevents white spot lesions during orthodontic treatment, and strengthens exposed roots in cases of gum recession. Its pleasant taste and fluoride content make it ideal for growing smiles.

Product Overview

Recommended by dentists and trusted by parents, this rinse provides essential cavity protection without the harshness of alcohol. It is suitable for daily use as part of a home oral hygiene routine for children, teens, and even adults with early signs of root exposure.

Key Features

  • Alcohol-free formula safe for kids
  • Strengthens developing tooth enamel
  • Helps prevent cavities and white spot lesions
  • Supports enamel protection during orthodontic treatment
  • Provides root protection as gums recede

Common Applications

  • Daily fluoride protection for children over age six
  • Orthodontic care for teens with braces
  • Cavity prevention during enamel development
  • Protection of exposed roots in early gum recession

Technical Specifications

Product Type: Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash
Form: Alcohol-Free Liquid Rinse
Active Ingredient: Sodium Fluoride
Recommended Age: 6 years and older
Flavor: Kid-friendly (varies by version)
Manufacturer: Chattem Inc
Brand: ACT® Kids

Customer Ratings

4.8 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Kids actually enjoy using it
Great for cavity prevention during braces
Mild flavor and no burning sensation


7. Fresh Breath Lemon Mint Mouthwash by Oxyfresh Worldwide Inc

Fresh breath lemon mint mouthwash - oxyfresh worldwide inc

Fresh Breath Lemon Mint Mouthwash by Oxyfresh Worldwide Inc

Fresh Breath Lemon Mint Mouthwash is a refreshing, alcohol-free oral rinse that neutralizes bad breath at the source without burning or staining. Infused with a clean lemon-mint flavor, it’s ideal for patients seeking long-lasting fresh breath and gentle oral care.

Product Overview

This mouthwash uses Oxygene®, a proprietary non-toxic ingredient, to safely eliminate volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) responsible for bad breath. With no alcohol, artificial dyes, or harsh flavors, it’s recommended for daily use, even for those with sensitive mouths.

Key Features

  • Alcohol-free and non-burning formula
  • Neutralizes odors with Oxygene® technology
  • Naturally flavored with lemon and mint
  • Dye-free and safe for long-term use
  • Trusted by dental professionals and patients alike

Common Applications

  • Daily freshening and oral hygiene routine
  • Support for halitosis management
  • Gentle rinse for patients with dry mouth or sensitivity
  • Recommended as part of post-procedure care

Technical Specifications

  • Flavor: Lemon Mint
  • Active Ingredient: Oxygene® (Stabilized Chlorine Dioxide)
  • Alcohol Content: 0%
  • Package Size: 16 oz (473 ml)
  • Manufacturer: Oxyfresh Worldwide Inc.
  • Item Type: Alcohol-Free Mouthwash

Customer Ratings

Average Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

Customer Feedback

Leaves my mouth feeling clean and fresh without the burn.
Best mouthwash I’ve ever used—no harsh chemicals and it actually works!
My dentist recommended this, and I’ve used it daily ever since.

8. Crest® Pro-Health™ Extra Deep Clean Rinse

Crest® Pro-Health™ Advanced with Extra Deep Clean Mouthwash is an alcohol-free, fluoride-based rinse designed to deliver comprehensive oral care. Its clinically proven formula helps prevent cavities, strengthens enamel, and kills millions of bad breath germs, all while providing a refreshing mint flavor.Health+18Crest+18Crest+18Target+1Crest+1

Product Overview

This mouthwash features a dual-action formula combining 0.02% sodium fluoride to aid in cavity prevention and 0.07% cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) to combat plaque and gingivitis. Its alcohol-free composition ensures a clean, fresh feeling without the burning sensation associated with traditional mouthwashes. The Extra Deep Clean variant is designed to reach hard-to-access areas, providing a thorough clean along the gumline and between teeth.Allure+3Crest+3Crest+3

Key Features

Common Applications

  • Daily oral hygiene routine to maintain healthy teeth and gums
  • Supplement to brushing and flossing for enhanced plaque control
  • Freshening breath throughout the day
  • Strengthening enamel in individuals prone to cavitiesCrest+3Amazon+3Target+3

Technical Specifications

Customer Ratings

Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (Based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

Leaves my mouth feeling exceptionally clean without the burn.
Noticeable improvement in gum health after consistent use.
The fresh mint flavor is pleasant and not overpowering

9. CLoSYS® Oral Rinse by Rowpar Pharmaceuticals

Closys® oral rinse - rowpar pharmaceuticals

Product Description

The Queen of Hearts™ Periodontal Curette is designed for precise and gentle root planing, featuring long, fine cutting edges that help achieve a smooth root surface. This instrument enhances the effectiveness of periodontal therapy, supporting improved patient outcomes.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Paradise Dental Technology, the Queen of Hearts™ Curette has a double-ended design with a solid resin handle in red. Its ergonomic, tapered round handle offers comfort and control during extended procedures. The stainless steel tips ensure durability and optimal performance for subgingival debridement and root finishing.

Key Features

  • Long, fine cutting edges for smooth root surfaces
  • Optimized for finishing during root planing
  • Red solid resin handle for easy identification
  • Ergonomic round, tapered handle for comfort and control
  • Durable stainless steel tip construction
  • Double-ended for efficiency

Common Applications

  • Root planing and periodontal finishing
  • Subgingival debridement
  • Final smoothing of root surfaces
  • Periodontal maintenance therapy

Technical Specifications

  • Tip Type: Queen of Hearts™
  • Tip Material: Stainless Steel
  • Handle Type: Solid Resin
  • Handle Material: Resin
  • Handle Shape: Round
  • Handle Taper: Tapered
  • Color: Red
  • Color Family: Red
  • Number of Ends: Double
  • Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
  • Manufacturer: Paradise Dental Technology

10. Listerine® Sensitivity Zero Alcohol Mouthwash, Fresh Mint by Johnson & Johnson

Listerine® sensitivity zero alcohol mouthwash, fresh mint - johnson & johnson

Product Description

Listerine® Sensitivity Zero Alcohol Mouthwash is designed to provide relief from painful tooth sensitivity. Its alcohol-free formula offers a less intense taste while delivering effective protection for sensitive areas of the teeth. With continued use, it helps shield and protect sensitive teeth, contributing to overall oral health.

Product Overview

Manufactured by Johnson & Johnson, this mouthwash utilizes Crystal Block™ Technology, which works by depositing crystals deep inside exposed dentin tubules, effectively blocking the pathways to sensitive nerve endings. The Fresh Mint flavor ensures a pleasant rinsing experience without the burn associated with alcohol-containing mouthwashes. Regular use as part of your oral care routine can lead to significant relief from tooth sensitivity.

Key Features

  • Provides 24-hour relief from painful tooth sensitivity with continued use
  • Crystal Block™ Technology blocks exposed dentin tubules
  • Alcohol-free formula with a refreshing Fresh Mint flavor
  • Less intense taste compared to alcohol-based mouthwashes
  • Clinically proven to shield and protect sensitive areas of teeth
  • Suitable for daily use as part of an oral hygiene regimen

Common Applications

  • Relief from tooth sensitivity caused by cold, heat, acids, sweets, or contact
  • Daily oral care to protect against sensitivity
  • Complementing brushing and flossing routines for comprehensive oral

Technical Specifications

  • Flavor: Fresh Mint
  • Alcohol Content: Zero Alcohol
  • Active Ingredient: Dipotassium Oxalate Monohydrate
  • Inactive Ingredients: Water, Sorbitol, Propylene Glycol, Flavor, Phosphoric Acid, Poloxamer, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sucralose, Sodium Saccharin
  • Manufacturer: Johnson & Johnson

Customer Ratings

4.6 out of 5 stars (based on verified reviews)

Customer Feedback

  • Effective relief for sensitive teeth without the burning sensation.
  • Pleasant mint flavor and noticeable improvement in sensitivity after regular use.
  • Appreciate the alcohol-free formula; it’s gentle yet effective

Picture of Dental Country Editors

Dental Country Editors

The Dental Country research and editing team reviews all the public and specialty data available for products and services in dentistry as well as consumers' feedback and reviews to provide a fair source of information to both professional and public consumers in dentistry. We appreciate feedback, corrections, suggestions, or additional information available regarding all reviews and articles.