Mouthwashes used in dentistry

Antiseptic mouthwashes decrease the number of microorganisms in the oral cavity and can be used for periodontal disease, dental caries, and pre- and post-procedural mouth rinsing.

Fluoride mouthwashes have significant benefits in patients at high risk of dental caries, but should only be used on the recommendation of a dentist.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic mouthwashes provide symptomatic relief of some inflammatory oral mucosal diseases (see Benzydamine).

Lubricating mouthwashes (eg artificial salivary products, sodium bicarbonate) can provide temporary symptomatic relief of dry mouth.

Alcohol-containing mouthwashes may be associated with oral cancer, and should be avoided if possible. In addition, patients with oral mucosal disease and dry mouth should avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes because they cause profound drying of the oral mucosa.