Top 6 Best Gum Care Mouthwash
Dentist Tested and Reviewed | Time to Read: 7 mins
Updated: August 31, 2022
By: Dr. Advocate
The majority of mouthwashes that you find at the store seek to reduce the microbial load in your mouth; however, other oral rinses treat various issues, including dry mouth, gum inflammation, halitosis, and oral pain.
Gum inflammation occurs when bacteria in the mouth localizes above and below the gum line triggering an inflammatory response. If this bacteria is not removed, it can lead to gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. When this occurs, the bone begins to move away from the irritation, and bone loss occurs. Bone loss is irreversible, so it is paramount to remove the bacteria before it causes damage.
Related: Learn more about Periodontal Disease
The tested products contain several active ingredients to treat gingivitis and plaque accumulation. For example, The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Oral Rinse contains aloe vera, and the Crest products contain cetylpyridinium chloride. In addition, Listerine Gum Therapy Oral Rinse uses eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. Each product attacks the bacteria differently, leading to a unique taste, oral sensation, and lasting effects.
Before reviewing, look at the most common problems associated with harmful oral bacteria.
Harmful Oral Bacteria Problems
- Bad breath
- Plaque accumulation
- Gingivitis
- Gum disease
- Irreversible bone loss
- Tooth decay
- Systemic health correlation
According to recent studies, researchers have discovered a correlation between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The link between gum disease and systemic health problems becomes more apparent when researched. The Mouth-body connection is a popular topic in healthcare today, and rightfully so to discover the best healthy living practices.
Tested and Reviewed
Evaluation Criteria
We highlight each product's unique, advertised benefits, identify their pros and cons and score each from 1 to 5 based on four categories. The oral rinse with the highest score is crowned the overall champion; however, we’ll also give suggested patient benefits for each product. Prices listed are subject to change and discussed in each review, however they were not considered within the scoring criteria.
- Effectiveness: Does the mouthwash treat the advertised need? How effective were the results?
- Comfort: Are you able to swish for recommended time? Did it sting or burn? How did the mouth feel afterwards?
- Taste: How was the overall taste? Was it tolerable? Did it alter your sense of taste?
- Likeability: Is the product likeable and enjoyable to use? Are you able to use it twice daily?
Crest Gum Care Oral Rinse
Crest is a leader in the oral health care community combining years of research with product development. Crest Whitestrips is their most desired product; however, they’re also known for their innovative toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss. Gum Care contains cetylpyridinium chloride to fight gingivitis-causing bacteria.
Let’s take a closer look at this gum care oral rinse to see how it stacks up with its competitors.
Highlights
- $6.50 per bottle (16.9 oz)
- Neutralizes plaque germs
- Antigingivitis/antiplaque
- Cool wintergreen flavor
- Prevents bleeding gums
- Alcohol-free
Results
Effectiveness: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Comfort: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Taste: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Likeability: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Total: 19/20
Pros
Crest Gum Care formulated an effective product with a refreshing flavor and minimal burning. It’s a great all-around product with no altered taste or bitter aftertaste. High likeability because of its flavor and comfort.
Cons
The dry mouth sensation transitions to a cooling effect within a few minutes.
Best for patients with dry mouth and desire fresh breath.
Oral-B Gum Detoxify Oral Rinse
The brand “trusted by dentists and consumers worldwide” offers many products to meet your unique oral care needs. Oral-B was founded in 1949 by a periodontist, his wife, and his daughter to create a safer, more effective toothbrush. Oral-B’s Special Rinse Collection is designed to meet your oral health needs for a healthier mouth. Their product line treats dry mouth, bad breath, gum inflammation, and mouth sores. In addition, gum Detoxify contains cetylpyridinium chloride to fight gingivitis and reduce gingival redness.
Let’s take a closer look at this unique product.
Highlights
- $7.99 per bottle (16 oz)
- Clinically proven healthier gums
- 24 hour protection against plaque and bad breath
- No added alcohol, dyes, gluten and sulfates
- Mild mint flavor freshens breath
Results
Effectiveness: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Comfort: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Taste: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Likeability: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Total: 18/20
Pros
This product was more refreshing than the Crest products, and the flavor seemed to stick around long after rinsing. Cetylpyridinium chloride acts by constricting the oral tissue and fighting off the bacteria. As a result, this product was effective and comfortable to swish with a slight stinging sensation.
Cons
After use, there’s a distinct sensation of dry, dehydrated oral tissue, common with the active ingredient cetylpyridinium chloride. Also, a bitter aftertaste may be uncomfortable for some individuals.
Best for patients that desire refreshing flavor.
The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Oral Rinse
The Natural Dentist was founded to support oral health with natural, non-irritating ingredients. Healthy gums don’t bleed, and this product seeks to remove bacteria that lead to an inflammatory response in the mouth. According to clinical trials, Aloe vera is the active antimicrobial ingredient that beats prescription oral rinses. Aloe vera has been known for thousands of years for its healing and soothing properties.
Let's take a closer look at this oral rinse.
Highlights
- $7.99 per bottle (16 oz)
- 20% purified aloe vera
- Soothes and moisturizes gums
- Peppermint freshens breath
- Contains no sulfates, colors, alcohol or artificial flavors
- Orange zest flavor is mint-free
Results
Effectiveness: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Comfort: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Taste: ⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒
Likeability: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Total: 16/20
Pros
The aloe vera is non-irritating and leaves the gum tissue moist and healthy. There’s no dryness or quench sensation. There’s absolutely no bitter aftertaste, altered sensation, or mouth parchment. Also, natural ingredients are less irritating than artificial ingredients.
Cons
Unfortunately, the taste was almost intolerable. It wasn't as refreshing as others, but it’s hard to beat all the positives that this product offers. Also, the orange zest flavor may be a better option for likeability.
Best for patients with sensitive gums and value natural ingredients.
Listerine Gum Therapy Oral Rinse
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.
Let’s take a look at this popular gum therapy oral rinse.
Highlights
- $16.99 per bottle (1 L)
- ADA accepted
- Antiseptic
- Helps reverse signs of early gum disease
- 4x healthier gums in 3 weeks
- Eliminates redness, bleeding and inflammation
Results
Effectiveness: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Comfort: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Taste: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Likeability: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Total: 19/20
Pros
Listerine developed a great formula that offers the freshest breath with a lasting cooling effect. It was very effective at plaque removal and the intense mint flavor. The recommended use was manageable, and their active ingredient combination led to less mouth dryness. Also, it’s accepted by the ADA.
Cons
The flavor may be a bit much for some individuals as it takes your breath away. Also, there was a slight taste alteration upon rinsing.
Best for patients that desire strong mint flavor.
Crest Gum and Breath Therapy Oral Rinse
As discussed, Crest is a leader in the oral health care community combining years of research with product development. Gum and Breath Purify also contains cetylpyridinium chloride, similar to Gum Care, to fight gingivitis-causing bacteria. It uses the same amount of active ingredients and also seeks to relieve bad breath.
Let’s take a closer look at this refreshing product.
Highlights
- $3.50 per bottle (1 L)
- Clinically proven to promote healthy gums
- Helps prevent bad breath
- Reduces redness and bleeding
- Targets bacteria at the gum line
Results
Effectiveness: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Comfort: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Taste: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Likeability: ⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒
Total: 17/20
Pros
This product offers excellent flavor and lasting fresh breath long after rinsing. It was effective at removing plaque and limiting swollen gums. There was minimal stinging, and the directions were manageable to follow.
Cons
Similar to other products with cetylpyridinium chloride, you can sense the gum tissue constricting and dryness taking effect. Also, there was slight bitterness long after rinsing.
Best for patients that desire gum care and fresh breath.
SmartMouth Clinical DDS Activated Oral Rinse
Dr. Marvin Cohen founded SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories in 1993. Dr. Cohen was a leader in researching and developing products to combat Halitosis. The original activated oral rinse seeks to eliminate sulfur gas production using patented zinc ion activated technology. This product is prescription strength, fights inflammation-causing bacteria, and eliminates sulfur gas production. Their bottle design has dual chambers to harness the power of both bad breath fighting solutions.
Let’s take a closer look at this product.
Highlights
- $12.50 per bottle (16 oz)
- Prescription strength
- Dentist developed
- 24 hour bad breath prevention
- Alcohol-free
- Safe for diabetics
- Activated zinc ions block sulfur gas
Results
Effectiveness: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Comfort: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Taste: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Likeability: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Total: 19/20
Pros
SmartMouth did a great job formulating a gentle rinse with no aftertaste. The clean mint was refreshing and eliminated the bad breath. Also, it was effective at targeting gingivitis and bleeding gums.
Cons
We observed a parched mouth sensation during and after rinsing; however it seemed to subside minutes later.
Best for patients that desire gum care and lasting fresh breath.
Overall Champion: Crest Gum Care Oral Rinse*
There was a three-way tie between Crest Gum Care, SmartMouth Clinical DDS, and Listerine Gum Therapy. All three products are effective, comfortable, and flavorful. They each contain slightly different ingredients. SmartMouth and Crest Gum Care use Cetylpyridinium Chloride as their active ingredient as you sense the oral tissue constricting during swishing. Listerine uses a variety of alcohols to eliminate harmful bacteria and freshen breath. Their product is more likely to sting while swishing and rinsing. If you have sensitive gums, SmartMouth is recommended; however, the overall winner is Crest Gum Care. It edged out Listerine Gum Therapy because it’s more likeable and tolerable to swish. Listerine Gum Therapy is recommended if you desire a robust and lasting flavor, Listerine Gum Therapy is recommended.
Final Rankings
- Crest Gum Care Oral Rinse 19/20
- Listerine Gum Therapy Oral Rinse 19/20
- SmartMouth Clinical DDS Activated Oral Rinse 19/20
- Oral-B Gum Detoxify Oral Rinse 18/20
- Crest and Breath Therapy Oral Rinse 17/20
- The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Oral Rinse 16/20
* My Dental Advocate product reviews are based on individual experience and your results with the products may vary.
About the Author
Dr. Advocate is an actual board-certified dentist with clinical practice experience and a mission to provide accurate dental patient education. He believes everyone should access easy-to-read dental resources presented in layman’s terms with relevant, up-to-date dental research and insight to improve their oral health.
Top 6 Best Gum Care Mouthwash
Dentist Tested and Reviewed
Time to Read: 7 mins
Updated: August 31, 2022
By: Dr. Advocate
The majority of mouthwashes that you find at the store seek to reduce the microbial load in your mouth; however, other oral rinses treat various issues, including dry mouth, gum inflammation, halitosis, and oral pain.
Gum inflammation occurs when bacteria in the mouth localizes above and below the gum line triggering an inflammatory response. If this bacteria is not removed, it can lead to gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. When this occurs, the bone begins to move away from the irritation, and bone loss occurs. Bone loss is irreversible, so it is paramount to remove the bacteria before it causes damage.
Related:
Learn more about Periodontal Disease
The tested products contain several active ingredients to treat gingivitis and plaque accumulation. For example, The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Oral Rinse contains aloe vera, and the Crest products contain cetylpyridinium chloride. In addition, Listerine Gum Therapy Oral Rinse uses eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. Each product attacks the bacteria differently, leading to a unique taste, oral sensation, and lasting effects.
Before reviewing, look at the most common problems associated with harmful oral bacteria.
Harmful Oral
Bacteria Problems
- Bad breath
- Plaque accumulation
- Gingivitis
- Gum disease
- Irreversible bone loss
- Tooth decay
- Systemic health correlation
According to recent studies, researchers have discovered a correlation between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease. The link between gum disease and systemic health problems becomes more apparent when researched. The Mouth-body connection is a popular topic in healthcare today, and rightfully so to discover the best healthy living practices.
Tested and Reviewed
Evaluation Criteria
We highlight each product's unique, advertised benefits, identify their pros and cons and score each from 1 to 5 based on four categories. The oral rinse with the highest score is crowned the overall champion; however, we’ll also give suggested patient benefits for each product. Prices listed are subject to change and discussed in each review, however they were not considered within the scoring criteria.
- Effectiveness: Does the mouthwash treat the advertised need? How effective were the results?
- Comfort: Are you able to swish for recommended time? Did it sting or burn? How did the mouth feel afterwards?
- Taste: How was the overall taste? Was it tolerable? Did it alter your sense of taste?
- Likeability: Is the product likeable and enjoyable to use? Are you able to use it twice daily?
Crest Gum Care
Oral Rinse
Crest is a leader in the oral health care community combining years of research with product development. Crest Whitestrips is their most desired product however they’re also known for their innovative toothpastes, mouthwash and floss. Gum Care contains cetylpyridinium chloride to fight gingivitis causing bacteria.
Let’s take a closer look at this gum care oral rinse to see how it stacks up with its competitors.
Highlights
- $6.43 per bottle (16.9 oz)
- Neutralizes plaque germs
- Antigingivitis/antiplaque
- Cool wintergreen flavor
- Prevents bleeding gums
- Alcohol-free
Pros
Crest Gum Care formulated an effective product with refreshing flavor and minimal burning. All around great product with no altered taste or bitter aftertaste. High likeability because of its flavor and comfort.
Cons
Slight dry mouth sensation upon rinsing however transitions to a cooling effect within a few minutes.
Results
Effectiveness:
Comfort:
Taste:
Likeability:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Total: 19/20
Best for patients with dry mouth and desire fresh breath.
Oral-B Gum Detoxify Oral Rinse
The brand trusted by dentists and consumers worldwide offer many products to meet your unique oral care needs. Oral-B was founded in 1949 by a periodontist, his wife and daugther to create a safer, more effective toothbrush. Oral-B’s Special Rinse Collection is designed to meet your oral health needs for a healthier mouth. Their product line treats dry mouth, bad breath, gum inflammation and mouth sores. Gum Detoxify contains cetylpyridinium chloride to fight gingivitis and reduce gingival redness.
Let’s take a closer look at this unique product.
Highlights
- $7.97 per bottle (16 oz)
- Clinically proven healthier gums
- 24 hour protection against plaque and bad breath
- No added alcohol, dyes, gluten and sulfates
- Mild mint flavor freshens breath
Pros
This product was more refreshing than the Crest products and the flavor seemed to stick around long after rinsing. Cetylpyridinium chloride acts by constricting the oral tissue and fighting off the bacteria. This product was effective and comfortable to swish with a slight stinging sensation.
Cons
There’s a distinct sensation of dry parched oral tissue after use which is common with active ingredient cetylpyridinium chloride. Also, there was a bitter aftertaste that may be uncomfortable for some individuals.
Results
Effectiveness:
Comfort:
Taste:
Likeability:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Total: 18/20
Best for patients that desire refreshing flavor.
The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Oral Rinse
The Natural Dentist was founded to support oral health with natural, non-irritating ingredients. Healthy gums don’t bleed and this product seeks to remove bacteria that leads to inflammatory response in the mouth. Aloe vera is the active antimicrobial ingredient that beats prescription oral rinses, according to clinical trials. Aloe vera has been known and used for thousands of years for its healing and soothing properties.
Let's take a closer look at this oral rinse.
Highlights
- $7.99 per bottle (16 oz)
- 20% purified aloe vera
- Soothes and moisturizes gums
- Peppermint freshens breath
- Contains no sulfates, colors, alcohol or artificial flavors
- Orange zest flavor is mint-free
Pros
The aloe vera is non-irritating and leaves the gum tissue moist and healthy. There’s no dryness or quench sensation. There’s absolutely no bitter aftertaste, altered sensation or mouth parchment. Also, natural ingredients are less irritating than artificial ingredients.
Cons
Unfortunately, the taste was almost intolerable. It wasn't as refreshing as others but it’s hard to beat all the positives that this product offers. Also, orange zest flavor may be a better option for likeability.
Results
Effectiveness:
Comfort:
Taste:
Likeability:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
Total: 16/20
Best for patients with sensitive gums and value natural ingredients.
Listerine Gum Therapy Oral Rinse
Lister, an English surgeon who performed the first operation in a sterilized chamber disinfected with pulverized antiseptic. Dr. Lawrence created his own formulation to kill germs in tissues, like your mouth. Listerine has the largest variety of mouthwash compared to other brands and they offer four different bottle sizes. Listerine Gum Therapy uses a combination of active ingredients to fight off bacteria.
Let’s take a look at this popular gum therapy oral rinse.
Highlights
- $16.99 per bottle (1 L)
- ADA accepted
- Antiseptic
- Helps reverse signs of early gum disease
- 4x healthier gums in 3 weeks
- Eliminates redness, bleeding and inflammation
Pros
Listerine developed a great formula that offers the freshest breath with a lasting cooling effect. It was very effective at plaque removal and the mint flavor is strong. The recommended use was manageable and their active ingredient combination led to less mouth dryness. Accepted by the ADA.
Cons
The flavor may be a bit much for some individuals as it takes your breath away. Also, there was slight taste alteration upon rinsing.
Results
Effectiveness:
Comfort:
Taste:
Likeability:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Total: 19/20
Best for patients that desire strong mint flavor.
Crest Gum and Breath Therapy Oral Rinse
As we previously discussed, Crest is a leader in the oral health care community combining years of research with product development. Gum and Breath Purify also contains cetylpyridinium chloride, similar to Gum Care, to fight gingivitis causing bacteria. It uses the same amount of active ingredients and also seeks to relieve bad breath.
Let’s take a closer look at this refreshing product.
Highlights
- $3.49 per bottle (1 L)
- Clinically proven to promote healthy gums
- Helps prevent bad breath
- Reduces redness and bleeding
- Targets bacteria at the gum line
Pros
This product offers great flavor and lasting fresh breath long after rinsing. It was effective at removing plaque and limiting swollen gums. There was minimal stinging and the directions were manageable to follow.
Cons
Similar to other products with cetylpyridinium chloride, you can sense the gum tissue constricting and dryness taking effect. Also, there was slight bitterness long after rinsing.
Results
Effectiveness:
Comfort:
Taste:
Likeability:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒
Total: 17/20
Best for patients that desire gum care and fresh breath.
SmartMouth Clinical DDS Activated Oral Rinse
SmartMouth Oral Health Laboratories was founded by Dr. Marvin Cohen in 1993. Dr. Cohen was a leader in research and development of products to combat Halitosis. The original activated oral rinse seeks to eliminate sulfur gas production using patented zinc ion activated technology. This product is prescription strength and fights inflammation causing bacteria as well as eliminates sulfur gas production. Their bottle design has dual chambers to harness the power of both bad breath fighting solutions.
Let’s take a closer look at this product.
Highlights
- $12.49 per bottle (16 oz)
- Prescription strength
- Dentist developed
- 24 hour bad breath prevention
- Alcohol-free
- Safe for diabetics
- Activated zinc ions block sulfur gas
Pros
SmartMouth did a great job formulating a gentle rinse with no aftertaste. The clean mint was refreshing and eliminated the bad breath. Also, it was effective at targeting gingivitis and bleeding gums.
Cons
A parched mouth sensation was observed during and after rinsing however it seemed to subside minutes later.
Results
Effectiveness:
Comfort:
Taste:
Likeability:
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
Total: 19/20
Best for patients that desire gum care and lasting fresh breath.
Overall Champion:
Crest Gum Care
Oral Rinse*
There was a three-way tie between Crest Gum Care, SmartMouth Clinical DDS, and Listerine Gum Therapy. All three products are effective, comfortable, and flavorful. They each contain slightly different ingredients. SmartMouth and Crest Gum Care use Cetylpyridinium Chloride as their active ingredient as you sense the oral tissue constricting during swishing. Listerine uses a variety of alcohols to eliminate harmful bacteria and freshen breath. Their product is more likely to sting while swishing and rinsing. If you have sensitive gums, SmartMouth is recommended; however, the overall winner is Crest Gum Care. It edged out Listerine Gum Therapy because it’s more likeable and tolerable to swish. Listerine Gum Therapy is recommended if you desire a robust and lasting flavor, Listerine Gum Therapy is recommended.
Final Rankings
- Crest Gum Care Oral Rinse 19/20
- Listerine Gum Therapy Oral Rinse 19/20
- SmartMouth Clinical DDS Activated Oral Rinse 19/20
- Oral-B Gum Detoxify Oral Rinse 18/20
- Crest and Breath Therapy Oral Rinse 17/20
- The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Oral Rinse 16/20
* My Dental Advocate product reviews are based on individual experience and your results with the products may vary.
About the Author
Dr. Advocate is an actual board-certified dentist with clinical practice experience and a mission to provide accurate dental patient education. He believes everyone should access easy-to-read dental resources presented in layman’s terms with relevant, up-to-date dental research and insight to improve their oral health.
Related Product Reviews
Bad Breath Mouthwash
The majority of mouthwashes that you find at the store seek to reduce microbial load in your mouth, however there are other oral rinses that treat dry mouth, oral fungus, bad breath and...
Battery Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes have greatly evolved over the years from a simple toothbrush with uniform bristles to even a rechargeable one that pairs with your phone...
Sensitive Gum Mouthwash
Individuals with sensitive gums may have challenges with some of these products. Gum tissue is highly sensitive and if triggered can lead to redness, pain, peeling and irritation...
Related Product Reviews
Bad Breath Mouthwash
The majority of mouthwashes that you find at the store seek to reduce microbial load in your mouth, however there are other oral rinses that treat dry mouth, oral fungus, bad breath and...
Battery Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes have greatly evolved over the years from a simple toothbrush with uniform bristles to even a rechargeable one that pairs with your phone...
Sensitive Gum Mouthwash
Individuals with sensitive gums may have challenges with some of these products. Gum tissue is highly sensitive and if triggered can lead to redness, pain, peeling and irritation...