5 Best Mouthwash for Sore Mouth 2023 (Dentist Recommended)
We’ve all been there: that uncomfortable sting when sipping hot coffee or the sharp zing from a spoonful of ice cream due to a sore mouth.
But relief is at hand! Dive into our curated list of the five best mouthwashes that promise to freshen your breath and alleviate that pain of a sore mouth.
As an experienced dentist with years of experience, I’ve tested and evaluated 250+ 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 Sore Mouth from a dentist’s perspective.
Buying Guide
- Best Overall: Colgate Peroxyl Mouth Sore Rinse
- Best Sensitivity: CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash
- Best Value: Oral-B Mouth Sore Mouthwash
- Best Natural: StellaLife VEGA Oral Rinse
- Best Bad Breath: TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse
Related Reviews
- 5 Best TheraBreath Mouthwash 2023 (Dentist-Recommended)
- 5 Best Alkaline Mouthwash 2023 (Dentist-Recommended)
- 5 Best Mouthwash for Braces 2023 (Dentist-Recommended)
What Causes a Sore Mouth?
A sore mouth isn’t just an inconvenience; it often signals underlying issues. Delving deeper into the common causes can empower you to find the most effective solutions.
Need Dental Advice? Ask Dr. Hannan a Question!
Common Causes
- Dental Procedures: Whether getting a new crown, undergoing a root canal treatment, or having a routine cleaning, dental interventions can be harsh on the mouth. The immediate aftermath of these procedures can sometimes lead to swelling, tenderness, and general discomfort.
- Mouth Ulcers: These pesky sores can appear without warning. While the exact cause of canker sores is uncertain, factors like stress, tissue injury, or certain foods (like citrus or acidic fruits) can trigger them. They are painful but usually heal within a week or two.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients in your diet can manifest in your mouth. For instance, vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, which causes swollen, bleeding gums. Likewise, a lack of vitamin B can cause mouth ulcers, cracked lips, and a sore tongue.
- Oral Infections: Various pathogens can wreak havoc in your mouth from fungal infections like oral thrush (caused by Candida yeast) to bacterial infections like gingivitis. Symptoms can range from white patches to inflamed gums.
- Accidental Bites or Burns: It’s not uncommon to accidentally chomp down on the inside of our cheek or sip a beverage that’s too hot. While these injuries can be quite painful, they typically heal quickly. However, repeated trauma (like frequent cheek biting) might require attention.
- Oral Conditions: Conditions such as Burning Mouth Syndrome can cause a chronic burning sensation in the mouth. This syndrome can result from nerve damage, hormonal changes, or other underlying health issues.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people might be allergic to specific foods, dental products, or medications, resulting in mouth soreness, redness, or swellings.
The Role of Mouthwash in Oral Care
Mouthwashes do more than merely give you a minty breath. Here’s their role in oral health:
- Antimicrobial Action: Many mouthwashes contain antimicrobial agents that help kill bacteria, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
- Fluoride Content: Some mouthwashes have fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.
- Desensitizing Features: For those with sensitive teeth, certain mouthwashes can provide relief by shielding dental nerves.
- pH Balancing: A balanced pH in the mouth can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Some mouthwashes help neutralize the oral pH after consuming acidic foods or drinks.
Top 5 Best Mouthwash for Sore Mouth
Dealing with a sore mouth? Finding the right remedy can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve simplified things for you. We’ve researched and handpicked the top five types of mouthwash renowned for their soothing properties and effectiveness.
Each product on this list offers targeted relief for various oral discomforts, from ulcers to general sensitivity. Let’s explore the best solutions to get you smiling without the sting.
1. Colgate Peroxyl Mouth Sore Rinse (Best Overall)
Colgate seeks to develop products that promote healthy smiles.
They’ve been in the oral health care industry for over 145 years and offer various oral care products. Sustainability is also important to them as they recently created a first-of-its-kind recyclable toothpaste tube.
In addition, they strive to be an accessible company that offers many educational resources to the public and dental professionals. Peroxyl Mouth Sore Rinse is formulated with 1.5% hydrogen peroxide to cleanse and promote the healing of minor oral wounds.
Dentist Review
Colgate Peroxyl Mouth Sore Rinse shines the brightest when striking a balance between effectiveness, trustworthiness, and general appeal. This oxygenating rinse provides rapid relief, promoting healing for minor mouth irritations, sores, or gum injuries.
Its formula is crafted to cleanse and treat oral wounds, ensuring a faster recovery. Recognized by the ADA (American Dental Association), its credibility is backed by a brand known globally for its commitment to oral care.
This product is a top contender for those seeking a reliable solution that delivers both immediate comfort and ongoing protection against potential irritations. Pair it with its consistently high ratings and positive user testimonials, and it’s clear why Colgate Peroxyl stands out as our best overall pick.
2. CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash (Best Sensitivity)
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.
Dentist Review
For individuals grappling with dental sensitivity, every sip of a cold drink or bite of hot food can feel challenging. Enter CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash, a product specifically tailored to cater to this unique discomfort.
This mouthwash offers a gentle, unflavored formula, ensuring that even the most sensitive mouths can rinse without the sting or burn typical of other mouthwashes. Beyond its mild nature, CloSYS also boasts a pH-balanced formula, which aids in neutralizing harmful acids in the mouth, a common culprit behind sensitivity.
Plus, its alcohol-free composition ensures no further drying or irritation, making it a haven for those with sensitive teeth and gums. When it comes to providing both relief and protection without any harsh sensations, CloSYS Ultra Sensitive Mouthwash emerges as the top contender in the realm of sensitivity relief.
3. Oral-B Mouth Sore Mouthwash (Best Value)
The Oral-B Special Care Rinse Collection is crafted to meet your unique oral care needs.
Oral-B Mouth Sore Special Care Mouthwash is formulated to fight against Canker Sores, Cheek Bites, Braces & Denture irritations, Oral & Gum Irritations. No added: Alcohol, Artificial Dyes, Parabens, Gluten, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).
Dentist Review
The Oral-B Mouth Sore Mouthwash offers tremendous bang for those seeking effective relief without breaking the bank. Not only does this mouthwash come from a brand synonymous with oral care excellence, but its specially formulated solution also delivers targeted relief for various mouth sores and irritations.
Its gentle yet effective ingredients ensure a soothing experience, alleviating discomfort while fostering an optimal healing environment. However, it stands out in the value category’s competitive pricing coupled with its generous volume, ensuring prolonged use and sustained benefits.
The combination of trusted brand reputation, efficacy, and affordability makes the Oral-B Mouth Sore Mouthwash a top choice for those seeking quality at a wallet-friendly price point.
4. StellaLife VEGA Oral Rinse (Best Natural)
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.
Dentist Review
In today’s world, where the inclination towards natural and organic remedies is growing, StellaLife VEGA Oral Rinse stands out as a beacon for holistic oral care.
Crafted from a blend of natural ingredients, this mouthwash harnesses the power of nature to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Key ingredients include echinacea, calendula, and aloe vera, all known for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties. The rinse not only offers rapid relief from sores and irritations but also boosts oral hydration and reduces bacteria that can lead to oral diseases.
StellaLife’s commitment to avoiding artificial additives, colors, and preservatives further ensures a gentle yet effective rinse, making it a top pick for those passionate about embracing natural solutions for their oral health.
5. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse (Best Bad Breath)
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 Oral Rinse stimulates saliva flow and circulates antibacterial, oxygen-rich bacteria throughout your mouth.
Dentist Review
A sore mouth is challenging enough, but when paired with bad breath, it can severely affect one’s confidence and comfort. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse offers a dual solution to this common concern.
Formulated by Dr. Harold Katz, a dentist and bacteriologist, this rinse employs an oxygenating agent to neutralize sulfur-producing bacteria, the culprits behind bad breath.
At the same time, its gentle, alcohol-free formula helps soothe sore and irritated oral tissues without causing further discomfort or dryness.
Additionally, the absence of artificial colors and flavors ensures that the rinse provides relief without unnecessary additives. For those who wish to tackle bad breath and a sore mouth head-on, TheraBreath offers an unparalleled blend of effectiveness and gentle care, making it our top recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can mouthwash replace regular brushing and flossing?
No, mouthwash is meant to be a supplemental part of an oral hygiene routine and not a replacement. While it can reach areas that are hard for a toothbrush or floss to access, it cannot remove plaque or debris as effectively. Brushing and flossing remain essential for optimal oral health.
How often should I use mouthwash?
It depends on the product and your specific needs. Generally, many mouthwashes are designed for daily use, often twice a day after brushing. However, it's essential to read the product's instructions and consult with a dentist, especially if addressing specific oral concerns.
Are there any side effects to using mouthwash regularly?
While many people use mouthwash without issues, some might experience side effects like mouth dryness, taste alteration, or increased sensitivity, especially with alcohol-based rinses. It's crucial to choose a product that suits your oral environment and discontinue use if any adverse effects occur, consulting a dentist for guidance.
My Experience & Expertise
As a dentist, I understand the importance of maintaining oral health and the challenges that come with it, especially when dealing with discomfort or bad breath. The right mouthwash can be a game-changer, offering targeted relief and promoting overall oral well-being.
From the all-rounded capabilities of Colgate Peroxyl to the natural benefits of StellaLife VEGA and the dual-action of TheraBreath, there’s a solution tailored to every unique need.
Always remember, while these mouthwashes provide great supplemental care, regular check-ups and a consistent oral hygiene routine remain paramount. Here’s to a healthier, happier smile!
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!
