5 Best Mouthwash for Dental Implants 2023 (Dentist Recommended)
Maintaining optimal oral health is more crucial than ever for those who have decided to invest in dental implants. Dental implants, representing a significant advancement in dental technology, restore functionality and aesthetics and require particular care to ensure longevity.
One significant aspect of this care routine is using the right mouthwash. Mouthwash is a potent tool in the daily oral care regimen, reaching areas where toothbrushes or floss may not.
When it comes to dental implants, choosing the appropriate mouthwash can significantly impact the implants’ health and longevity.
As an experienced dentist with years of experience, I’ve tested and evaluated 200+ dental products. I strive to find the best products for achieving excellent oral hygiene, so let’s take a closer look at the 5 Best Mouthwash for Dental Implants from a dentist’s perspective.
Buying Guide
- Best Overall: StellaLife VEGA Oral Rinse
- Best All-Natural: Oxyfresh Fresh Breath Mouthwash
- Best Value: Listerine Total Care Mouthwash
- Best Flavor: TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse
- Best Sensitivity: Closys Sensitive Mouthwash
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Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are a modern, innovative solution for missing teeth that replicate the natural structure of teeth. The process involves the insertion of a small titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as the new tooth’s root. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone in a process known as osseointegration, creating a strong foundation for the artificial tooth, or crown, to be attached.
Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is of utmost importance when you have dental implants. Dental implants mimic natural teeth, meaning they can also accrue plaque and tartar if not properly cleaned. Moreover, good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent peri-implantitis, a condition similar to periodontal disease, where inflammation occurs around the implant, potentially leading to bone loss and implant failure.
More than 35 million Americans are missing all their teeth in one or both jaws.
Why Mouthwash is Important for Dental Implants
Mouthwash plays a pivotal role in dental implant care. Here are some reasons why:
- Comprehensive Cleaning: Even the most diligent brushing and flossing routine can miss hard-to-reach areas. Mouthwash can flow around and between teeth and implants, ensuring that every part of your mouth is cleaned.
- Prevents Plaque Build-Up: The antimicrobial properties of many mouthwashes inhibit bacterial growth and plaque formation, both of which can be detrimental to dental implants if left unchecked.
- Promotes Healing: Mouthwash can aid in healing and reducing inflammation after the dental implant surgery, providing comfort during the recovery process.
Ingredients to Look for in Mouthwash for Dental Implants
When shopping for a mouthwash suitable for dental implants, here are some ingredients to look out for:
- Fluoride: This mineral strengthens tooth enamel, helps prevent tooth decay, and can contribute to the health of the gums surrounding the implant.
- Chlorhexidine: An antiseptic that fights bacteria in the mouth, chlorhexidine can help prevent gum diseases and is often recommended for post-surgical care in dental implant patients.
- Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC): This compound is known for reducing plaque and gingivitis, crucial for maintaining implant health.
- Xylitol: A natural sweetener, xylitol prevents bacteria from sticking to the teeth and implants, thus helping to reduce plaque formation.
These ingredients contribute to maintaining a healthy oral environment, preventing infection, and promoting healing – all important for the longevity of your dental implants.
Top 5 Best Mouthwash for Dental Implants
As a dentist, I’ve searched countless products to bring you the top 5 types of mouthwash that are perfect for maintaining healthy dental implants. They’re effective, safe, and easily incorporated into your daily routine.
1. StellaLife VEGA Oral Rinse (Best Overall)
The StellaLife VEGA Oral Care Rinse is an outstanding choice for individuals with dental implants. This natural, homeopathic solution combines broad-spectrum oral care with the principles of holistic health, making it a unique and effective option for comprehensive oral hygiene.
Formulated with a blend of natural ingredients, it promotes faster healing and pain relief, reducing the chance of infection, which is crucial for those with dental implants. Its antimicrobial properties also help combat harmful bacteria that could affect the health of gums and implants.
Furthermore, StellaLife VEGA Rinse improves gum health and hydrates oral tissues, a significant benefit for those with dry mouth or undergoing procedures that might cause temporary dryness.
The rinse is non-staining and alcohol-free, making it a gentle choice that doesn’t cause irritation or discomfort. With its natural formulation and a broad range of oral health benefits, StellaLife VEGA Oral Care Rinse is the best overall choice for individuals with dental implants. It goes beyond cleaning and freshening, offering therapeutic benefits that support oral health and implant longevity.
StellaLife VEGA Oral Coconut Rinse is a natural, antimicrobial product that has been formulated to hydrate the oral cavity, promote healthy gums, maintain oral health, and freshen breath.
The patented rinse supports healthy healing following oral surgery and periodontal treatment. The rinse is specially formulated for patient with a sensitive mouth. The rinse is also uniquely designed for patients undergoing chemo and radiation treatments and patients with various oral cavity inflammatory conditions. Recommended and used by Dental Advisor, Dental Products Report, and dental professionals.*
2. Oxyfresh Fresh Breath Mouthwash (Best All-Natural)
Oxyfresh Lemon Mint Mouthwash stands out as a top choice for those seeking an all-natural solution to maintain the health of their dental implants. It combines the best of nature with cutting-edge science to provide a safe, effective, and gentle oral care experience.
Formulated with a unique blend of Oxygene® and zinc, this mouthwash effectively neutralizes the volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth fresh and clean. Its alcohol-free formula ensures it won’t cause dryness or irritation, which is crucial for those with dental implants.
The mouthwash features a refreshing lemon-mint flavor that leaves your mouth feeling clean and refreshed without any burning sensation. It’s also dye-free, cruelty-free, and made with non-toxic ingredients, demonstrating a commitment to health and well-being.
With its all-natural formulation, Oxyfresh Lemon Mint Mouthwash supports the health and longevity of dental implants and aligns with the values of those seeking natural, sustainable, and ethical products for their oral hygiene routine.
Oxyfresh was founded in 1984 and developed oral care products for people and pets. They create “safe, eco-friendly solutions that combine science and natural ingredients.” Also, they have products that treat oral health problems, including bad breath, sensitive teeth, mouth sores, gingivitis, and gum disease. Oxyfresh oral rinse was awarded first place in the 2020 Family Choice Awards.
3. Listerine Total Care Mouthwash (Best Value)
Listerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash represents great value for comprehensive oral hygiene, making it an excellent choice for individuals with dental implants.
The formula of this mouthwash is specially designed to provide six benefits: it cleans, strengthens teeth, protects against cavities, freshens breath, helps fight plaque, and keeps gums healthy. Containing fluoride aids in preventing tooth decay, a crucial aspect of maintaining dental implant health.
Listerine Total Care also kills 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, gingivitis, and plaque. The Fresh Mint flavor provides a refreshing taste, adding to the oral care experience.
Being alcohol-free, this mouthwash won’t cause dryness or irritation, which makes it an ideal choice for those with dental implants. With its affordability, volume, and multipurpose formulation, Listerine Total Care offers remarkable value for maintaining oral health and the longevity of dental implants.
Give your mouth complete care with ADA-accepted Listerine Total Care Fluoride Anticavity Mouthwash. This Fresh Mint-flavored mouthwash for bad breath provides six dental hygiene benefits in one powerful oral rinse & up to four times the fluoride uptake versus Act,* & provides 50% greater strengthening of weakened enamel vs. brushing alone in lab studies. The fluoride-rich oral rinse formula helps prevent cavities, restores enamel, & strengthens your teeth to improve oral health.
4. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse (Best Flavor)
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse, with its mild mint flavor, stands out as a delightful choice for individuals with dental implants. It provides an effective solution for combating bad breath and promoting a healthier oral environment without overpowering taste sensations.
The formula is alcohol-free and does not contain artificial flavors or colors, ensuring a gentle yet effective cleaning experience, which is ideal for dental implant care. It also neutralizes sulfur-producing bacteria, reduces bad breath, and helps maintain a balanced oral environment.
In addition, TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse is certified vegan, gluten-free, and kosher, providing a health-conscious choice for maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Its flavor and functionality make it a top choice for those with dental implants seeking fresh breath and effective oral care.
Dr. Harold Katz created TheraBreath to help his daughter overcome her struggle with bad breath.
Since 1994 they’ve been creating oral care products that treat halitosis, gum disease, tooth decay, stained teeth, immune support, tooth sensitivity, and dry mouth. The original TheraBreath formulation attacks odor-causing bacteria rather than masking it with heavy flavors or powerful odors.
TheraBreath is one of the five largest oral care companies and the largest privately-held manufacturer. TheraBreath Oral Rinse stimulates saliva flow and circulates antibacterial, oxygen-rich bacteria throughout your mouth.
5. Closys Sensitive Mouthwash (Best Sensitivity)
CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash, specifically designed for individuals with sensitive mouths, offers a gentle yet effective solution for maintaining optimal oral hygiene, making it an ideal choice for those with dental implants. It has a mild mint flavor and does not contain alcohol, preventing the dryness and irritation that can come with alcohol-based mouthwashes.
Its pH-balanced formula maintains the mouth’s natural balance, crucial for optimal oral health. This mouthwash kills 99.9% of harmful bacteria in just 10 seconds, helping to prevent plaque build-up and bad breath. Additionally, it contains Cloralstan, a powerful yet gentle ingredient that significantly reduces harmful bacteria leading to gum health improvement.
Importantly for dental implant patients, it aids in the healing of mouth sores and is recommended by dentists for its ability to enhance the overall health of the oral cavity. With its gentle formulation, CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash ensures a fresh and clean oral environment conducive to the longevity of dental implants.
In 1980, Dr. Perry Ratcliff founded Closys to replace ineffective and irritating oral rinses.
He formulated an extremely effective yet gentle oral rinse that a small group of dentists praised. Closys Oral Care was born and continues to create high-quality, comfortable oral rinses. Their products are made in the USA and are free from alcohol, sulfates, and triclosan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are all mouthwashes safe for dental implants?
Not all mouthwashes are created equal, and some may not be suitable for dental implants. For instance, alcohol-based mouthwashes could cause dryness and irritation. It’s best to look for mouthwashes with ingredients like fluoride, chlorhexidine, and xylitol, which promote oral health and support the longevity of dental implants.
Can I use mouthwash immediately after getting dental implants?
Yes, but with some caveats. Immediately after surgery, your dentist may recommend a special mouthwash to help with healing and to keep the area clean. However, always follow the specific instructions given by your dental healthcare provider.
Can mouthwash replace brushing and flossing if I have dental implants?
No, mouthwash should not replace brushing and flossing. It’s designed to complement these practices by cleaning areas that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Proper oral hygiene for dental implants involves regular brushing, flossing, and use of a suitable mouthwash.
My Experience & Expertise
The health and longevity of dental implants hinge significantly on consistent, comprehensive oral care. Having guided numerous patients through their journey, from implant placement to ongoing care, I have an intimate understanding of the challenges and solutions.
By recommending the most effective and suitable products, like the ones outlined in this article, I aim to facilitate the best care for dental implants. My experience underscores the importance of making informed decisions about oral care products, considering individual needs, lifestyle factors, and specific oral conditions.
Knowledge is power when cultivating healthy dental habits. The more informed you are, the better positioned you’ll be to prevent avoidable and potentially costly dental procedures for you and your family. Watch for future blog posts, where we’ll continue sharing important information, product reviews and practical advice!
