Best mouthwash for oral hygiene, tried and tested 2024

When we think of sour sweets, we can feel the mouth-wateringly tangy sensation coat our mouths without ever popping a fizzy skittle. Similarly, when we think of rinsing our mouths with mouthwash, many of us can recall an intense, lasting stinging which feels as though someone has pressed the sustaining pedal on alcohol wash-induced pain.

As young children, our sensitive gums rejected the feeling of intense mouthwash, yet advertisements suggested that it was the only way to protect our teeth and gums, as well as banish bad breath for good. The landscape of mouthwash manufacturing has changed greatly since those teenage visits to the orthodontist, and you needn’t endure burning sensations to enjoy a holistic approach to dental hygiene.

From freshening breath to providing a lasting, protective layer of fluoride which helps to strengthen enamel, using mouthwash daily is suggested by dentists for a myriad of reasons. Some mouthwashes prioritise healing gums and preventing gingivitis, while others deliver antimicrobial effects and soothe dry mouths while whitening the teeth. With certain mouthwashes, you can enjoy a combination of all these hygiene-boosting benefits.

We spoke to Kristoffer Vural, Founder of luxury oral care brand Selahatin for some insight into what makes a brilliant mouthwash.

“Stay away from alcohol in mouthwashes as it will make your mouth dry,” warns Vural, as alcohol-based mouthwash is known for reducing the production of saliva. “As for ingredients to use, both Selahatin and dentists recommend utilising fluoride in mouthwashes. However, as a brand, Selahatin is not only focused on the clinical ingredients. We have a collection of artisanal mouthwash aromas that are made to enhance your well-being on an emotional level. We combine emotion and function so that we can transform a routine into a ritual.”

“If you use toothpaste with fluoride in the morning and in the evening, you don't have to use fluoride-based mouthwash daily if your dentist hasn't recommended it. Since our mouthwash has a refreshing taste and feel, we do recommend using it after lunch, before going on a date, or before going out for the evening.”

The short answer is that alcohol in mouthwash causes that horrible stinging sensation.

“Large companies that are dominating the oral care field don't prioritise the experience of using mouthwash. Their product lines haven't changed in 70 years, and they only seem to be made to give the user an intense feeling rather than a genuine clean. Selahatin has opted for products that take the user experience very seriously. They are generally more mellow while still providing a fresh feeling.”

“If you are talking about working from a clinical perspective, fluoride is the best way to get results. If you are talking about working from a well-being or an emotional level, you should look out for our artisanal aromas that can really stir your fantasy and maybe even provide some escapism.”

“No, in fact, it can be good for you. In our artisanal aromas, we often utilise essential oils which have inherent benefits –such as peppermint and eucalyptus which are antimicrobial.”

Those with intense gum sensitivities might opt for a mouthwash without essential oils to avoid potential reactions.

Keep scrolling for a selection of the best high street and artisanal mouthwashes on the market.

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