Best Mouthwash for Receding Gums (Dentist Recommended)

Dentist Tested & Reviewed

Matt Hannan, DDS
Updated: April 2, 2024

Dealing with receding gums?

While mouthwash can’t reverse gum recession, it can help manage symptoms and prevent further complications.

Our top 5 dentist-recommended mouthwashes are designed to reduce sensitivity and keep plaque at bay where your gums have receded.

As an experienced dentist with years of experience, I’ve tested and evaluated 300+ dental products. I strive to find the best products for achieving excellent oral hygiene, so let’s take a closer look at the Best Mouthwash for Receding Gums from a dentist’s perspective.

Buying Guide

1. Best Overall: TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash
2. Best All-Natural: Tom’s of Maine Natural Mouthwash
3. Best Value: Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash
4. Best Sensitivity: CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash
5. Best Anti-Gingivitis: Parodontax Active Mouthwash

Related Reviews

• 5 Best Mouthwash for Gum Recession 2024 (Dentist-Recommended)
• 5 Best Mouthwash for Oral Thrush 2024 (Dentist-Recommended)
• 5 Best Mouthwash for Inflamed Gums 2024 (Dentist-Recommended)

What Causes Receding Gums?

Receding gums are a common dental issue where the gum tissue pulls back or wears away, exposing more of the tooth or even the tooth’s root.

While receding gums may seem like just a cosmetic problem, they can lead to serious dental concerns if left unaddressed.

Key Factors

• Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals are more susceptible to gum recession due to their genetic makeup.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, a common cause of gum recession.
• Aggressive Toothbrushing: Brushing too forcefully or with hard-bristle brushes can damage gums and lead to recession. Gentle, circular brushing motions are safer.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as during pregnancy, menopause, or puberty, can increase the risk of gum recession.
• Tobacco Usage: Smoking or using tobacco products can lead to the development of sticky plaque, contributing to gum recession.
• Teeth Grinding or Clenching: Habitual teeth grinding or clenching exerts excessive pressure on teeth, potentially causing gum recession.

Understanding the underlying reasons for receding gums is the first step towards better oral care. Once you know the causes, you can take appropriate measures to minimize risk factors and manage symptoms effectively.

Common Symptoms

• Tooth Sensitivity: Heightened sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks can be an early sign of gum recession.
• Longer Tooth Appearance: Receding gums can expose more of the tooth surface, making teeth appear longer than usual.
• Gum Redness and Swelling: Inflamed, red, or swollen gums may indicate gum disease, often associated with gum recession.
• Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed easily during brushing or flossing may be a sign of gum disease and potential recession.
• Loose Teeth: Advanced gum recession and gum disease can lead to teeth becoming loose or shifting.
• Toothaches: Pain or discomfort may occur when tooth roots become exposed due to receding gums.

By recognizing these symptoms early on, you can take preventative steps and consult your dentist for targeted treatment options, including the use of specialized mouthwashes designed for receding gums.

How to Treat Receding Gums

Treating receding gums often involves a multi-pronged approach that combines at-home care with professional dental treatments. While gum recession can’t be completely reversed, you can stop its progression and manage symptoms.

Treatment & Management

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups allows for early detection and treatment of gum recession.
• Scaling and Root Planing: This deep-cleaning procedure removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, helping to halt the progression of gum disease and recession.
• Gum Graft Surgery: In more severe cases, a surgical procedure to graft tissue over the exposed tooth root may be recommended.
• Proper Brushing Technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to avoid further wearing down your gums.
• Anti-Gingivitis Toothpaste and Mouthwash: Specialized toothpaste and mouthwashes can help combat plaque and gum disease, complementing your brushing and flossing routine.
• Avoid Tobacco: Quitting smoking or chewing tobacco can significantly improve gum health and slow down recession.
• Wear a Night Guard: If teeth grinding is an issue, a night guard can protect your teeth and gums while you sleep.

Remember, early intervention is crucial for managing receding gums effectively. Consult your dentist for a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, which may include recommendations for the best types of mouthwash to use for your condition.

By the time someone is 65, they have an 88% likelihood of dealing with receding gums.

Best Mouthwash for Receding Gums

You’ve learned about what causes receding gums, the symptoms to watch for, and what to look for in a mouthwash tailored for this condition. Now, it’s time to explore the top 5 dentist-recommended mouthwashes that meet these criteria.

Each of these products has been carefully selected for its effectiveness in reducing sensitivity, controlling plaque, and improving oral hygiene, especially for those dealing with receding gums. Read on to discover which mouthwash can best complement your oral care regimen.

1. Best Overall | TheraBreath Healthy Gums

Periodontist-Formulated

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Periodontist Formulated 24-Hour Oral Rinse

$28.00 $17.64 ($0.55 / Fl Oz)

It is estimated that nearly 50% of the population of the United States lives with gum disease in some form.

Whether you’re noticing sensitive teeth, bleeding gums, or have been diagnosed with gingivitis, TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse is an effective solution.

Healthy Gums Oral Rinse is a safe and effective treatment to fight bacteria and common symptoms of gum disease, which can also be related to diabetes.

Dr. Katz’s Healthy Gums Oral Rinse is periodontist-formulated to help people living with gum disease.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

04/26/2024 06:55 pm GMT

Dentist Review

When it comes to superior gum care, TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse emerges as the best overall option.

This dentist-endorsed, alcohol-free formula is tailored to meet the specific needs of individuals with sensitive or receding gums.

It comes packed with antiseptic agents for effective plaque control while also offering 24-hour protection against bad breath.

The product’s unique blend of features makes it not just effective but also convenient for daily use. Users appreciate its mild taste and report a noticeable reduction in gum sensitivity and inflammation.

Backed by professional recommendations and positive customer reviews, TheraBreath stands as a comprehensive choice for anyone seeking to manage receding gums effectively.

2. Best All-Natural | Tom’s of Maine Natural

Alcohol Free

Tom's of Maine Natural Wicked Fresh Mouthwash

$40.99 $30.72 ($0.32 / Fl Oz)

Tom's of Maine Wicked Fresh! Natural Mouthwash brings out your best breath without the burn.

This fluoride-free, alcohol-free* mouthwash uses zinc to neutralize the odor caused by bad breath germs. Plus, it contains no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives and is not tested on animals.

With more than 50 years of experience combining scientific know-how, naturally derived ingredients and a bit of ingenuity, we make products that are good for you and the planet.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

04/26/2024 11:45 pm GMT

Dentist Review

For those seeking an all-natural option, Tom’s of Maine Wicked Fresh! Long Lasting Mouthwash is our top pick.

This fluoride-free and alcohol-free formula embraces the power of natural ingredients like witch hazel and peppermint oil to freshen breath and promote overall oral health.

It is also free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize clean, natural products.

Customer reviews frequently highlight its pleasant, non-burning sensation and refreshing taste, qualities that make this mouthwash easy to incorporate into a daily routine.

With its eco-friendly packaging and commitment to natural ingredients, Tom’s of Maine not only supports your oral health but also aligns with eco-conscious values.

All these factors combine to make it the best all-natural choice for individuals dealing with receding gums.

3. Best Value | Listerine Antiseptic

ADA Accepted

Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash

$20.39 $18.98

Protect your mouth from germs and get fresh breath with the Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash.

Accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA), this germ-killing mouthwash for bad breath is clinically shown to reduce plaque 52 percent more and reduce gingivitis 21 percent more than brushing and flossing alone.

Adding a 30-second rinse of this refreshing mint-flavored oral rinse to your morning and evening oral hygiene routines is all it takes to get 24-hour germ protection against those that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

04/26/2024 09:50 pm GMT

Dentist Review

When budget is a consideration, Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash offers the best value for your money without sacrificing efficacy.

This ADA-approved, clinically proven formula provides a powerful antiseptic solution to kill germs that lead to plaque, bad breath, and gingivitis—all contributing factors to gum recession.

While it does contain alcohol, its formula has stood the test of time and remains a staple in many households for its reliable results.

Customers appreciate its long-lasting freshness and its efficiency in removing oral bacteria, often observable after just a few uses. It’s available in multiple sizes and flavors, offering both versatility and cost-saving options for consumers.

With a strong reputation for quality at an accessible price point, Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash is the ideal choice for those seeking an effective, budget-friendly solution for receding gums.

4. Best Sensitivity | CloSYS Ultra Sensitive

Non-Irritating

CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash

$21.95 ($0.34 / Fl Oz)

CloSYS Mouthwashes you can protect your mouth from harmful bad breath germs and freshen your breath without the painful burn.

CloSYS is one of the first mouthwashes to receive the American Dental Association seal for reducing bad breath. This gentle but powerful mouthwash is perfect for all ages because its patented formula is pH-balanced and so gentle you’ll actually use it longer for better results.

A 30-second rinse in the morning and evening after each brushing is easy, and all it takes to get great results. CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash comes unflavored so it's like water and even tastes like water.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

04/27/2024 12:15 am GMT

Dentist Review

For those who experience heightened sensitivity due to receding gums, CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash is a standout choice.

This alcohol-free, dye-free, and sulfate-free formula is specifically designed to be gentle on sensitive mouths while effectively eliminating harmful bacteria.

It’s pH-balanced to reduce acid levels in the mouth, a crucial factor in combating both tooth sensitivity and gum recession.

Users often praise its unflavored formula, which makes it easier for those with sensitivities to use the product consistently without irritation.

Beyond simply alleviating sensitivity, CloSYS also promotes overall gum health, making it a dual-purpose solution.

Backed by positive customer experiences and a formulation designed for sensitive oral care, CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash is the go-to option for those dealing with the aches and stings often associated with receding gums.

5. Best Anti-Gingivitis | Parodontax Active

Antibacterial Shield

Parodontax Active Gum Health Mouthwash

$18.36 ($0.36 / Fl Oz)

Enhance your gum care routine and help take control over bleeding gums with Parodontax Active Gum Health Mouthwash.

Designed for people with bleeding gums and free from alcohol and formulated with Cetylpyridinium Chloride (CPC), this oral rinse is designed to kill 99.9 percent of plaque bacteria (1) that builds up along the gum line, one of the main causes of bleeding gums.

With daily use, this mouth rinse forms an antibacterial shield (1) that helps prevent the build-up of plaque bacteria to help take back your gum health. This antiplaque and antigingivitis mouthwash has a mint flavor to help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

04/27/2024 08:15 am GMT

Dentist Review

If you’re specifically targeting gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease often associated with receding gums, Parodontax Active Mouthwash is your best bet.

This product contains stannous fluoride, a potent anti-gingivitis agent, which not only combats plaque but also treats and prevents gum inflammation.

It is specially formulated to be non-irritating and aims to provide 24-hour protection against the bacteria that cause plaque and gingivitis.

Customers often report a significant reduction in gum redness and bleeding within just a few days of use.

The mouthwash’s antibacterial properties help to maintain a cleaner oral environment, thus reducing the risk of gum recession progressing to more serious gum disease.

Given its specialized focus on anti-gingivitis care and strong user testimonials, Parodontax Active Mouthwash stands as the top choice in this category.

My Experience & Expertise

As a dentist, I can’t stress enough the importance of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine, especially when you’re dealing with issues like receding gums.

While mouthwash alone can’t prevent or reverse gum recession, it can certainly provide valuable support in reducing plaque, combating inflammation, and lessening sensitivity.

From all-natural options to those specifically formulated for conditions like gingivitis or sensitivity, the right mouthwash can make a significant difference in your oral care regimen. Always consult with your dental healthcare provider for personalized advice tailored to your needs.

Need a second opinion? We can help! Learn more. 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!