When is the best time to rinse?

The best time to use any mouth rinse appears to be right before bedtime. Since in many instances, bad breath involves the back of the tongue, it is probably helpful to gargle the mouth rinse. Some clinicians recommend extending the tongue while gargling, in order to allow the mouth rinse to reach farther back.

Baking soda is not recommended because it makes the mouth alkaline in pH, an environment conducive to gum disease and the break down of food substances. The mouth must be in a slightly acidic pH to prevent bad breath.  Peroxide, an oxygenating agent, should also be avoided.  Peroxides can produce harmful free radicals and as a result have been of concern to some health professionals when used for long periods of time in the presence of chronic inflamed tissue.  It follows that three ingredients that should NOT be added to toothpastes and mouth rinses are baking soda, peroxide and alcohol! Almost all major toothpaste and mouthwash makers include baking soda or peroxide in their products.  Also, some mouthwashes contain very high levels of alcohol, from 8% to 25%.

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Last modified: October 17, 2007