Best Mouthwash for Gum Disease

Flashing a perfect set of white teeth is always a beautiful sight to behold. However, nothing kills that glorious picture of perfection faster than unhealthy gums plagued by gum disease or periodontal disease.

Please….Do not let gum disease steal your smile! You must equip yourself with up-to-date knowledge to keep your gums in tip-top shape.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of gum disease, the benefits of using mouthwash, and how to pick the best mouthwash for gum disease to suit your needs.

Prepare to pick up some helpful tips and valuable information to maintain healthy gums and protect your priceless smile.

We begin!

Key Takeaways – Gum Disease? Mouthwash Can Help!

1) Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash, Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash, Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash, TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse, and Philips Sonicare BreathRx Antibacterial Mouth Rinse are considered by many as some of the best mouthwashes available for gum disease. In today’s post, I will only cover the mouthwashes for which I was able to get reliable information. I will be posting more as soon as I can get credible information about them.

2) It is important to consult with your dentist or periodontist to determine the best mouthwash for your specific needs and to ensure it aligns with any ongoing treatment.

3) Consistent oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings, are crucial for maintaining gum health.

4) In addition to using a gum disease-specific mouthwash, maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine is key, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly.

Understanding Gum Disease and Periodontal Disease

Before we get into picking the ideal mouthwash, I would like us to build a good foundation for understanding gum disease/periodontal disease and all the fancy terms relating to dental diseases.

Gum disease is mostly a general term referring to the various stages of periodontal disease, which includes gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gum disease is usually due to infection caused by plaque buildup that damages the tissues supporting your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth if not removed by brushing and flossing. Left unchecked, plaque hardens into tartar that can only be removed professionally. Both plaque and tartar cause irritation and inflammation of the gums.

As gum disease advances, the tissues and bone-supporting teeth become damaged, leading to conditions like gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is the initial, mild, and (in a considerable number of cases) reversible stage of gum disease that is characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

Periodontal disease, or Periodontitis, on the other hand, refers to the more severe and irreversible stage of gum disease. Periodontitis damages the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth, which can lead to tooth loss if not treated. It’s a serious infection that can destroy the bone around the teeth, and while common, it’s usually preventable with proper dental hygiene and oral care.

Signs and Symptoms That May Indicate You Have Gum Disease, Gingivitis, or Periodontitis

Gum disease can be sneaky, often progressing slowly without painful symptoms until significant damage occurs. Look out for these subtle signs:

• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Bleeding when brushing or flossing
• Gums that have pulled away from teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Changes in bite alignment
• Receding gums
• Pus between teeth and gums

Risk Factors

Certain lifestyle factors raise your risk of developing gum disease:

• Poor oral hygiene habits
• Infrequent dental cleanings and checkups
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Crooked teeth or ill-fitting dental work
• Grinding or clenching teeth
• Diabetes, cancer, or other systemic illnesses
• Stress
• Medications that cause dry mouth
• Genetic susceptibility

Dangers of Gum Disease

Left untreated, gum disease can have lasting consequences like:

• Tooth loss – Without the supporting structures, teeth become loose and may need extraction
• Bone damage – Infection and inflammation can destroy the jawbone
• Other health issues – Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, increasing inflammation throughout the body and risk for things like heart disease, stroke, and pneumonia.

Prevention Is Key (Or You Can Just Treat Gingivitis and Periodontitis)

The best way to avoid gum disease is preventive care. Make it a priority with these tips:

• Brush properly twice a day
• Floss thoroughly once daily
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash for gum disease daily
• Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary foods
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
• Get regular professional cleanings and oral exams

Spotting gum disease early makes treatment easier too. So consider seeing your dentist promptly if you notice any warning signs.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of gum disease, let us move on to explore the benefits of mouthwash for keeping gums healthy.

Benefits of Using Mouthwash for Gum Disease

Mouthwash should be an essential component of your daily oral care regimen. Using a quality mouthwash provides advantages for your gum health like:

Targets Gumline Bacteria

Mouthwash reaches bacteria buildup below the gum line and between teeth that brushing and flossing can miss. Rinsing with an antibacterial or antimicrobial mouthwash reduces the bacteria populations that cause plaque and gum disease.

Prevents Plaque Buildup

The germ-killing ingredients in medicated mouthwashes ward off bacteria that contribute to plaque formation. Using mouthwash helps disrupt the plaque cycle and reduce tartar deposits.

Controls Gum Disease

Using mouthwash twice daily provides a constant protective effect against gum infections. The antibacterial action helps treat early cases of gum disease and prevent more serious complications.

Reduces Gingivitis

Gingivitis causes irritated, inflamed gums that tend to bleed easily. Mouthwash containing ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils can curb gingivitis and reduce swelling and tenderness.

Freshens Breath

A bonus benefit is that mouthwash leaves your breath fresh! The antimicrobial effects decrease odor-causing bacteria that colonize the tongue and throat. You’ll have noticeable improvements in bad breath.

Improves Healing

Mouthwashes with soothing ingredients like aloe vera may aid healing after dental procedures. The oral rinse keeps the area clean while the gums and tissues mend.

Using mouthwash is an easy way to enhance your oral hygiene routine and defend against gum disease. But you still need to brush and floss thoroughly too. Mouthwash is not a substitute for proper mechanical cleaning of tooth surfaces.

Now can we explore the types of treatments available?

Types of Mouthwash for Gum Disease

To succeed at maintaining great dental health and properly treating periodontal disease, the need for a very effective mouthwash is crucial.

When it comes to mouthwash for gum disease, several options can cater to your specific needs. Antibacterial mouthwash for gum disease, such as Listerine or Crest Pro-Health, can help control plaque and reduce inflammation. Medicated mouthwash for gum disease, containing active ingredients like Chlorhexidine or Cetylpyridinium (Cetylpyridinium chloride), can provide an extra line of defense against oral bacteria.

For those preferring natural solutions, herbal mouthwash for gum disease can offer a gentler approach, with ingredients like aloe vera, echinacea, or green tea, known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

Remember, the choice of mouthwash should complement your overall oral hygiene routine and not replace regular brushing and flossing. It’s also essential to consult a dental professional to ensure the chosen mouthwash aligns with your overall oral health needs.

With the right mouthwash, you can actively combat gum disease, promoting healthier gums and a brighter smile.

The Importance of Early Treatment

Early detection and treatment of gum disease play a pivotal role in preventing its progression and maintaining oral health. Ignoring initial signs can lead to severe issues, making the condition harder to treat. The use of the best mouthwash for gum disease, coupled with regular dental visits, can help detect and control the problem at an early stage.

Mouthwash for gum disease is specifically designed to combat bacteria-causing gum infections. It’s not just about fresh breath; it’s about safeguarding your oral health. The best products for gum disease, like specialized mouth rinses, target gum health, reduce plaque and fight inflammation.

If you’re noticing signs of gum disease, such as swollen or bleeding gums, it’s time to take action. Start by incorporating a mouth rinse for gum disease into your daily routine. This, combined with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can halt the progression of gum disease.

Choosing the Best Mouthwash for Gingivitis And Best Mouthwash For Periodontal Disease

Walk down any drugstore aisle and you’ll see a multitude of mouthwash brands touting all kinds of benefits. With all the choices, it can be confusing and overwhelming to decide which will suit you if you are desperate to treat gingivitis and periodontitis.

Here are some helpful guidelines for determining the best mouthwash for gum disease for your personal needs:

Identify Your Oral Health Needs

Think about your specific gum health. Do you have mild gingivitis or more advanced periodontal disease? Mild cases may be managed with regular over-the-counter mouthwashes. But more severe gum infections likely need prescription antibacterial mouthwashes.

Look for Key Ingredients

Certain ingredients actively combat gum disease-causing bacteria. Seek out mouthwashes containing:

• Cetylpyridinium chloride – This powerful antimicrobial destroys plaque bacteria and controls tartar.
• Essential oils – Eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, and thymol have antibacterial qualities.
• Chlorhexidine – This strong antiseptic inhibits the development of plaque.
• Hydrogen peroxide – Attacks bacteria and disrupts biofilm formation.
• Xylitol – This natural sweetener inhibits plaque bacteria metabolism.
• Oxygenators – Agents like zinc and thyme neutralize odor-causing sulfur compounds.

Research Brand Reputations

Established brands like Listerine, Crest, Colgate, and ACT that have been tested clinically tend to be reliable choices. Look for products endorsed by dental organizations for effectiveness. Reading online user reviews can provide helpful insights too.

Avoid Certain Ingredients

Some ingredients to use cautiously or avoid include:

• Alcohol – Leads to dryness and burns sensitive gums.
• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) – Can increase canker sores in some.
• Artificial colors & flavors – Potential health concerns and allergic reactions.
• Triclosan – Questions about safety and antibacterial resistance.

Compare Prices

Costs range widely, from a few dollars for basic store brands to $10-15 for premium oral care lines. You want great quality mouthwash without unnecessary high costs. Consider signing up for pharmacy or drugstore savings programs to save more if there is any available to you.

Heed Lifestyle Factors

Seeking vegan, non-GMO, or kosher mouthwashes lets you align with your diet and ingredient preferences. If you have allergies, verify the mouthwash doesn’t contain problematic compounds.

If You Are Still Undecided, You can Ask Your Dentist

Consult your dentist early, especially if you have moderate to advanced gum disease and you cannot make up your mind on what to do. They can suggest the most effective mouthwash to use along with your treatment plan for optimal results.

With a multitude of mouthwashes out there, selecting the ideal one takes some research. But identifying the best mouthwash for your needs provides big dividends for your gum health.

Now let’s go over some pointers on the proper use of these life-saving solutions.

Tips for Using Mouthwash for Gum Health

To fully realize the gum health benefits of mouthwash:

• Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing, not before. Mouthwash works best on clean teeth.
• Swish the mouthwash vigorously around all surfaces of teeth and gums for 30-60 seconds. This ensures it penetrates everywhere.
• Spit out completely after swishing and don’t rinse with water. The residuals continue working.
• Use your medicated mouthwash twice daily – morning and night for optimal effects.
• Don’t eat or drink for 30 minutes after using to allow full absorption.
• Look out for signs of gum disease and see your dentist promptly if issues arise. Early treatment is key.
• Don’t neglect regular dental visits and professional cleanings every 6 months. Mouthwash isn’t enough on its own.

Proper technique and consistency are vital to getting the most from your mouthwash. Combine it with thorough daily brushing and flossing for a compelling defense against gum disease.

Now let’s do a deeper dive into some of the top mouthwashes for gum disease available.

Reviews of the Best Mouthwashes for Gum Disease (Top 3 Best Mouthwashes and Others)

Choosing among the seemingly endless choices can feel daunting. To make your decision easier, here are in-depth reviews of top-rated products:

Listerine Mouthwash ( Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash)

Key Features

• Contains essential oils with antimicrobial properties – eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, thymol
• Clinically proven to kill up to 99.9% of germs causing plaque and gingivitis
• Provides 12-hour protection against plaque and gingivitis germs
• ADA accepted to help control and prevent gingivitis
• Refreshing cool mint flavor leaves breath fresh
• Available in 1-liter, 500-mL, and travel-size bottles

Pros

• Strong germ-killing formula using essential oils
• Noticeable improvements in gum health and bad breath
• Provides hours of continued protection
• ADA seal demonstrates effectiveness
• Minty flavor most users find pleasant
• Easy to find at any drug or grocery store

Cons

• Higher alcohol content can sting sensitive gums
• Leaves a temporarily bitter medicinal taste
• Essential oils cause a strong burning sensation some dislike
• Not ideal for dry mouth or gums irritated by alcohol

Bottom Line

With its powerful germ-fighting essential oils, Listerine Cool Mint is one of the most popular and proven mouthwashes for gum care. Just be prepared for its intense medicinal taste.

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash

Key Features

• Contains Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC) to kill germs that cause gingivitis
• Clinically shown to reduce plaque bacteria buildup
• ADA accepted to help prevent and reduce gingivitis
• Fluoride helps strengthen enamel against cavities
• Alcohol-free formula with a mild minty flavor
• Bottles in 18 oz, 33.8 oz, and larger sizes

Pros

• CPC provides a potent bacteria-fighting ability
• Freshens breath for up to 24 hours
• Alcohol-free formula gentle on sensitive areas
• Fluoride provides added cavity prevention
• Leaves a clean, minty aftertaste
• Available in multipacks for added value

Cons

• Higher price point than generic brands
• Potential for some tooth staining with long-term use
• The taste isn’t appealing to some consumers
• May irritate canker sores for sensitive individuals

Bottom Line

With powerful germ-fighting ingredients and ADA approval, Crest Pro-Health is one of the best mouthwashes for gum disease available over the counter. Just monitor for potential tooth staining.

Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield Mouthwash

Key Features

• 0.07% Cetylpyridinium chloride kills germs causing gingivitis
• Clinically shown to provide a protective shield against plaque bacteria
• Patent-pending formula with fluoride for tooth and gum care
• 12-hour antibacterial protection
• Alcohol-free formula with a minty taste
• 16.9 fl oz bottles

Pros

• CPC provides strong antibacterial protection
• Clinically demonstrated plaque germ-fighting ability
• Alcohol-free for a more comfortable experience
• Fluoride fights cavities while caring for gums
• Leaves breath feeling clean and fresh
• Easy availability at local stores

Cons

• Can temporarily stain the tongue
• Higher price than generic mouthwash options
• The taste is too strong for some users
• May cause mild tingling or burning sensation

Bottom Line

Colgate Total Advanced Pro-Shield provides powerful, clinically proven plaque bacteria protection. Just keep an eye out for potential tongue staining or tingling.

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse

Key Features

• Formulated with Cetylpyridinium chloride to fight gingivitis
• 0.05% CPC concentration to reduce tartar and plaque
• Powerful bad breath-fighting formula
• Natural ingredients like aloe vera and xylitol
• Certified vegan, kosher, gluten-free
• 16 oz bottles

Pros

• CPC fights gingivitis and plaque bacteria
• No alcohol or irritating ingredients
• Leaves breath feeling clean and refreshed
• Natural ingredients soothe gums
• Suitable for those with dietary restrictions
• Doesn’t burn like some antibacterial mouthwashes

Cons

• Has a potent medicinal taste some dislike
• Usually more expensive than big-name brands
• Lower CPC concentration than some competitors
• Natural ingredients may not be as powerful

Bottom Line

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse is a vegan-friendly mouthwash with CPC to reduce gingivitis and plaque without alcohol. Just be prepared for the strong medicinal flavor.

ACT Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

Key Features

• Contains 0.05% sodium fluoride
• Maximum strength fluoride without a prescription
• Clinically shown to strengthen enamel against cavities
• Helps prevent and reduce plaque
• Leaves breath fresh for hours
• 18 oz and 33.8 oz bottles

Pros

• Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel
• Fights cavities and plaque germs
• Leaves mouth and breath feeling clean
• No artificial flavors or sweeteners
• Trusted drugstore brand with ADA acceptance
• Budget-friendly pricing

Cons

• Has an alcohol content of around 11%
• Potential burning sensation with dry/canker sore mouths
• Not as specialized for gum infections
• Some reports of quality variability

Bottom Line

ACT Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash fights cavities, plaque, and bad breath. But it may irritate sensitive gums with its alcohol content.

SmartMouth Clinical DDS Oral Rinse

Key Features

• Patented zinc, sodium chlorite formula
• Clinically shown to eliminate bad breath for 24 hours
• Removes sulfur compounds that cause bad breath
• Kills 99% of oral bacteria strains
• Alcohol-free formula
• 16 oz bottles

Pros

• Eliminates bad breath for a full day
• Formula neutralizes sulfur compounds
• Kills a broad spectrum of oral bacteria
• Alcohol-free, non-irritating ingredients
• No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives
• Endorsed by dentists for fresh breath

Cons

• Higher cost than typical drugstore brands
• Requires using activator tablet for full effect
• May not be as specialized for gum infections
• The taste isn’t appealing to some people

Bottom Line

SmartMouth Clinical DDS Oral Rinse delivers exceptional bad breath elimination but requires using an activator tablet too.

CloSYS Unflavored Mouthwash

Key Features

• Uses patented stabilized chlorine dioxide
• Clinically proven to neutralize bad breath
• Reduces bacteria that form plaque and tartar
• pH balanced formula
• Alcohol-free, dye-free, sulfate-free
• 16 oz bottles

Pros

• ClO2 destroys odor-causing compounds
• Removes bacteria populations in the mouth
• Non-irritating ingredients for sensitive mouths
• Balanced pH level enhances the mouth environment
• Leaves mouth and breath feeling clean
• Works without alcohol, dyes, sulfates

Cons

• Some dislike the bleach-like taste
• May require getting used to the sensation
• Not specifically formulated for gum disease
• Possibly less effective than alcohol-based ones

Bottom Line

CloSYS Unflavored Mouthwash safely eliminates bad breath using stabilized chlorine dioxide. But the taste and sensation take some adjustment.

Tom’s of Maine Antiplaque and Whitening Mouthwash

Key Features

• Natural formula with essential oils
• Fluoride-free whitening formula
• Clinically shown to reduce plaque germs
• Contains zinc citrate to freshen the breath
• No artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors
• Certified by Leaping Bunny as cruelty-free
• 16 oz recyclable bottles

Pros

• Natural ingredients fight plaque bacteria
• Whitens teeth while freshening breath
• Cruelty-free and ethically sourced
• Free of chemical nasties
• Leaves mouth feeling clean

Can Coconut Oil Pulling Help with Gum Disease?

Coconut oil pulling teeth boost technique may help with gum disease. Its antimicrobial properties can reduce plaque and bacteria in the mouth, promoting healthier gums. Regular oil pulling with coconut oil can also freshen breath and improve overall oral hygiene.

Conclusion

In conclusion, achieving optimal gum health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. The armory against periodontal disease is stocked with potent mouthwashes designed to combat the enemy at the gates.

Selecting the right mouthwash is akin to choosing the right weapon, and this guide arms you with the necessary knowledge.

Harness these tools, embrace early intervention, and navigate the path to a healthier and brighter smile.