1. Some Mouthwashes are as Acidic as Soda

Most mouthwashes are just acidic as soda with select brands that are alkaline. Bacteria that cause cavities have to grow in an acidic environment under 5.5pH so find a mouthwash to use regularly that is more alkaline.

2. Breathalyzer False Positives

Several mouthwashes can give false positives to alcohol breathalyzer tests from the police. We suggest using TheraBreath or OxyFresh if you plan on getting pulled over tonight after drinking to avoid enhancing your score.

3. Best Mouthwash for a Sore Throat Is...?

...located in your kitchen. Gargling with salt water is better than any store-bought mouthwash when you have a sore throat.

4. How Effective is Mouthwash in Preventing Cavities, Really?

Mouthwash has on average 15% of the fluoride toothpaste has so it does not play that major of a role. That is a miniscule amount so mouthwash will not be the workhorse of preventing cavities—that would be toothpaste.

5. There are Really Only 5 Types of Mouthwash

Not all mouthwashes function the same. There are 5 main categories depending on what you’re trying to address: cavities, gingivitis, bad breath or dry mouth (contain the same ingredients), whitening, and as a major overhaul/reset.

6. Active Ingredients vs Inactive Ingredients

The active ingredients are the action ingredients. The inactive ingredients simply enhance the experience of using the mouthwash but do not play a role in the main purpose of the mouthwash (ie prevent cavities or address dry mouth).

7. Should I Choose a Cosmetic Mouthwash?

Cosmetic mouthwash (primarily for bad breath) and dry mouth mouthwashes technically share the same ingredients so there is no real difference between the two. If you have dry mouth you can use cosmetic-labeled mouthwash and visa versa. However, since nearly all mouthwashes technically address bad breath as well, why not choose a different category of mouthwash with more benefits?

8. Oil Pulling

Oil pulling can purify and whiten teeth but not how you may think. Studies are lacking to validate all the claims from oil pullers. Oil Pulling has its benefits but should never replace brushing and flossing. Oh, and never spit the oil down the sink

9. Which to Use First: Mouthwash or Toothpaste?

Use last whatever is most important. If you are trying to prevent cavities, use mouthwash first and toothpaste last.

10. Rinsing After With Water

Don't rinse with water after using mouthwash. You are washing away the medicine you just put in your mouth when you rinse with water. Spit and let it sit on your teeth.