5 Best Mouthwash for Inflamed Gums 2024 (Dentist Recommended)
Dentist Tested & Reviewed
Gum inflammation can be a real nuisance. It causes discomfort and sensitivity, leading to more serious oral health issues if left untreated.
That’s where good mouthwash comes into play.
Beyond just freshening your breath, the right mouthwash can help soothe inflamed gums, fight harmful bacteria, and promote overall oral health.
Need Dental Advice? Ask Dr. Hannan!
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 Best Mouthwash for Inflamed Gums from a dentist’s perspective.
Buying Guide
- Best Overall: Colgate Peroxyl Mouthwash
- Best All-Natural: Hello Peace Out Plaque Mouthwash
- Best Value: Listerine Gum Therapy Mouthwash
- Best Sensitivity: CloSYS Sensitive Mouth Rinse
- Best Flavor: TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse
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Causes of Inflamed Gums
Inflamed gums, also known as gingivitis, is a common oral health issue many people experience.
Understanding what causes this condition can help you take preventive measures and choose the right mouthwash to mitigate these effects.
Primary Causes
- Poor Oral Hygiene: This is the most common cause. If plaque, a film of bacteria, is not regularly cleaned off teeth, it can cause gum inflammation.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can make you more susceptible to gum disease and inhibit your gums’ ability to heal.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, such as during pregnancy or menopause, can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of certain vitamins, notably vitamin C, can contribute to gum disease.
- Certain Medications: Some medicines, like those for epilepsy or hypertension, can affect your oral health and lead to gum inflammation.
Remember, these are just some of the common causes. Inflamed gums can be a sign of various health conditions, and it’s important to consult with a dental professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Recommended Reading: 5 Best Mouthwash for Receding Gums 2024 (Dentist Recommended)The right mouthwash can significantly manage your gum health, but it isn’t a stand-alone solution. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene habits are key.
According to the CDC, Almost half, 47.2%, of all adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease.
Role of Mouthwash in Gum Health
While brushing and flossing are the stars of the oral hygiene show, mouthwash is the supporting actor that can make a significant difference.
This versatile product does more than just leaving your breath minty fresh; it plays a crucial role in maintaining gum health.
- Fight Bacteria: Mouthwash is often formulated with antibacterial properties, which help control the growth of bacteria that can lead to gum diseases such as gingivitis.
- Soothe Inflamed Gums: Certain mouthwashes contain aloe vera or chamomile that can relieve inflamed and sore gums.
- Reach Tough Spots: Even the most meticulous brusher can miss some spots. Mouthwash can get into those hard-to-reach places, ensuring your mouth is thoroughly cleaned.
- Prevent Plaque Build-Up: Regular use of mouthwash can help prevent plaque build-up on your gums, teeth, and in-between spaces, further safeguarding your gums.
- Strengthen Teeth: Many types of mouthwash contain fluoride, which helps make teeth more resistant to decay, supporting overall oral health.
As you can see, the benefits of using mouthwash go far beyond just freshening your breath.
However, remember, not all mouthwashes are created equal. Selecting one that caters to your specific oral health needs is important. If inflamed gums are your concern, look for a mouthwash to fight bacteria and soothe inflammation.
And of course, continue with your regular brushing and flossing routine to complement the efforts of your chosen mouthwash.
Top 5 Best Mouthwash for Inflamed Gums
Now that we understand the role of mouthwash in maintaining gum health and the features to look for, let’s dive into our top 5 picks.
These products have been selected for their effectiveness, positive user reviews, and the properties they offer specifically for dealing with inflamed gums.
1. Colgate Peroxyl Mouthwash (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
Our best overall pick, the Colgate Peroxyl Mouthwash, stands out in the fight against gum inflammation.
The efficacy of this mouthwash can be attributed to its powerful active ingredient, hydrogen peroxide, which releases oxygen upon contact with oral tissues.
This unique feature triggers a cleansing, bubbling action that effectively removes debris and helps cleanse minor mouth irritations. This proactive approach to gum care goes a long way in promoting healing and mitigating inflammation.
Beyond its robust cleansing action, Colgate Peroxyl offers a soothing formula that immediately relieves gum inflammation and mouth sores.
This relief and its alcohol-free composition make it a favored choice among those who find alcohol-based mouthwashes too harsh or drying. Its mild mint flavor is the icing on the cake, leaving your mouth fresh and clean after every rinse.
Another compelling reason to trust Colgate Peroxyl is the brand’s reputation.
Colgate, a global leader in oral care, is renowned for its commitment to quality and effectiveness, and this mouthwash certainly lives up to that standard.
Given these impressive features and benefits, it’s clear why Colgate Peroxyl Mouth Sore Rinse takes the top spot on our list.
2. Hello Peace Out Plaque Mouthwash (Best All-Natural)
Say hello to naturally healthy antigingivitis mouthwash.
Thoughtfully formulated with aloe vera to promote healthy gums, this rinse contains coconut oil to moisturize, mint to freshen and natural sweeteners to rock your taste buds. And it prevents plaque and gingivitis, and freshens breath.
Hello contains no alcohol, no artificial sweeteners, no artificial flavors, no dyes and no SLS sulfates. As if that weren't enough magic for one bottle, hello is also vegan, never tested on animals.
Dentist Review
If you’re looking for an all-natural approach to combat gum inflammation, the Hello Peace Out Plaque Mouthwash is an excellent choice.
Made with thoughtfully sourced, natural ingredients, this mouthwash offers effective care without any artificial sweeteners, flavors, or dyes.
The Hello Oral Care mouthwash is packed with natural aloe vera and coconut oil, both known for their soothing and antibacterial properties, making it a potent solution for inflamed gums.
Also, it contains a natural sweetener, xylitol, which helps to fight cavities.
Furthermore, it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and made in the USA, ensuring you choose a product that aligns with ethical and sustainable values.
3. Listerine Gum Therapy Mouthwash (Best Value)
The creator of Listerine, Dr. Joseph Lawrence, named the formulation after Dr. Baron Lister, an English surgeon who performed the first operation in a sterilized chamber disinfected with pulverized antiseptic.
Dr. Lawrence created his formulation to kill germs in tissues like your mouth. As a result, Listerine has the widest variety of mouthwash compared to other brands, offering four different bottle sizes.
Listerine Gum Therapy uses a combination of active ingredients to fight off bacteria.
Dentist Review
When balancing effectiveness and cost, the Listerine Gum Therapy Mouthwash shines as the best value pick.
This mouthwash, from a brand synonymous with oral care, offers a powerful and effective formula for maintaining gum health at a price that won’t break the bank.
Listerine Ultraclean is specifically designed to combat plaque and gingivitis, two leading contributors to gum inflammation.
Its antiseptic properties kill germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis, providing up to 24 hours of protection with just 30 seconds of rinsing twice a day.
This offers a convenient and cost-effective way to bolster your oral care routine.
Moreover, it includes a unique EverFresh technology, which provides a powerful, dentist-clean feeling that lasts longer than brushing alone.
Its cool mint flavor leaves your mouth feeling fresh and invigorated, making your oral care routine an enjoyable experience.
Considering these attributes, Listerine Ultraclean provides great bang for your buck, proving that you don’t need to overspend for high-quality oral care. It’s a solid choice for those seeking effective gum care within a reasonable budget.
4. CloSYS Sensitive Mouth Rinse (Best Sensitivity)
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.
Dentist Review
Finding a gentle yet effective mouthwash can be a game-changer for those dealing with sensitive gums.
Our top pick in this category is the CloSYS Sensitive Mouth Rinse.
CloSYS Sensitive Mouthwash is uniquely formulated to be gentle on delicate gums while providing effective antibacterial action.
It’s alcohol-free and has a gentle mint flavor, ensuring a comfortable and soothing experience for sensitive gums.
Its patented Cloralstan formula kills 99.9% of harmful bacteria in just 10 seconds without the stinging or burning sensation often associated with mouthwashes.
Moreover, its pH balance reduces acid levels in the mouth, which can help prevent tooth decay and promote oral health.
5. TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse (Best Flavor)
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.
Dentist Review
While effectiveness is paramount, taste plays a considerable role in our oral care routines.
If you’re after a mouthwash that packs a flavor punch while still providing exceptional gum care, the TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse is your perfect match.
Developed by a dentist, TheraBreath Fresh Breath Oral Rinse features a cool mint flavor that doesn’t just mask bad breath but actively neutralizes sulfur-producing bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth tasting clean and fresh.
Not only does it tackle bad breath, but it also helps soothe inflamed gums, making it an excellent all-rounder.
This oral rinse is free from artificial colors, flavors, and alcohol. It’s also vegan, gluten-free, and certified kosher, catering to a wide range of dietary requirements and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any side effects of using mouthwash too frequently?
While mouthwash is generally safe for daily use, overuse can lead to certain issues, especially if the mouthwash contains alcohol. Excessive use can cause dryness in the mouth, alter taste, and in some cases, lead to oral sores. Always follow the product’s usage instructions and consult your dentist if you have any concerns.
Can mouthwash alone treat gum inflammation?
While mouthwash can help control the factors contributing to gum inflammation, such as plaque and bacteria, it should not be used as a standalone treatment. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups are integral to treating and preventing gum inflammation. If you’re experiencing severe or prolonged gum inflammation, it’s important to seek professional dental care.
Is it safe to use mouthwash if I have sensitive gums?
Yes, it’s safe to use mouthwash with sensitive gums, but you should opt for a mouthwash specifically formulated for sensitive gums. These types are typically alcohol-free and contain soothing ingredients to help reduce gum irritation. However, if you experience increased sensitivity or discomfort after using a mouthwash, you should discontinue its use and consult with your dentist.
My Experience & Expertise
As a dentist, I understand that the journey to optimal oral health extends beyond brushing and flossing.
Choosing the right mouthwash can make a significant difference, especially when dealing with inflamed gums.
Remember, while these mouthwashes can support oral health, they do not replace regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. If you have severe or persistent gum inflammation, seeking professional dental advice is crucial.
You can maintain healthy gums and a vibrant smile by pairing these mouthwashes with a comprehensive oral care routine.
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!
About the Author
Dr. Matthew Hannan, also known as “Dr. Advocate,” is a board-certified dentist on a mission to provide accurate dental patient education. He attended Baylor University before completing dental school at UT Health San Antonio School of Dentistry. He now lives in Arizona with his beautiful wife and 4 kids. Dr. Hannan believes everyone should access easy-to-read dental resources with relevant, up-to-date dental research and insight to improve their oral health.
Connect with Dr. Hannan!
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