What Does Mouthwash Actually Do?

Mouthwash can:

Kill bacteria – reduces plaque and helps manage gum disease
Freshen breath – though often only temporarily
Strengthen enamel – if it contains fluoride
Reach tricky spots – especially helpful if you wear braces or aligners

But it doesn’t remove food or plaque. That’s still down to your toothbrush and floss.

Can Mouthwash Be Harmful?

Yes, in some cases:

Alcohol-based rinses can dry out your mouth, increasing the risk of decay
Overuse of antibacterial types can disturb your mouth’s natural bacteria
Chlorhexidine rinses (often prescribed short-term) can cause staining
Using it too soon after brushing may rinse away beneficial fluoride from your toothpaste

We see this most often in patients who use mouthwash as a quick fix for bad breath, rather than tackling the underlying cause.

Should You Use Mouthwash Every Day?

Not always. You might benefit from daily use if:

You’re prone to cavities or have weak enamel
You’ve been advised by your dentist due to gum problems
You wear aligners or have braces

But for many people, mouthwash is optional. If you’ve got a solid brushing and flossing routine, your oral health may already be in good shape without it.

When’s the Best Time to Use It?

Avoid using it straight after brushing, especially if it contains fluoride – wait 30 minutes instead
Use it at another time of day (after meals or mid-afternoon) for best effect
Follow dentist instructions if you’ve been prescribed a medicated rinse

Timing matters. Using it immediately after brushing may cancel out some of the benefits of your toothpaste.

Are Alcohol-Free or Natural Options Better?

Often, yes:

Alcohol-free rinses are gentler and won’t dry out your mouth
Some natural products (e.g. aloe vera, xylitol) are milder alternatives, but look for clinical backing
Ideal for patients with dry mouth, sensitivity, or frequent mouth ulcers

We recommend avoiding anything that feels overly harsh or burns – strong doesn’t always mean better.

Should Everyone Be Using Mouthwash?

No. Mouthwash isn’t essential for everyone. We usually only recommend it when:

There’s a specific dental concern
You need extra support while undergoing treatment (e.g. Invisalign, veneers)
You’re recovering from surgery or a gum condition

If your hygiene routine is solid, you may not need it at all.

What We Recommend

Use a fluoride mouthwash if you're at high risk of decay
Choose alcohol-free options if you have dry mouth or sensitivity
Avoid overusing antibacterial rinses unless prescribed
Don’t use it as a breath freshener to mask a bigger problem – speak to your dentist instead

We always guide patients based on their specific needs. Bring your current mouthwash in at your next visit – we’re happy to check the ingredients with you.

Final Word

Mouthwash can support your dental routine – but it’s not essential for everyone. The right type, timing and frequency all depend on your needs. If you're not sure what’s best, ask us. We’ve got years of experience helping patients across Basingstoke find a routine that works for them.