Breath Freshening Mouthwash

What It Does: Neutralizes odor. Studies have shown that chlorine and zinc, the primary ingredients in these rinses, defuse foul-smelling sulphur compounds produced by bacteria. Some products, like Scope, also contain a germicide called cetylpyridinium, which has antigingivitis (gum disease–fighting) and antiplaque benefits, says Clifford Whall, Ph.D., the director of the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance program.

Best For: Those who have bad breath but not significant gum disease or tooth decay.

Pros: Breath-freshening mouthwashes are easier on the taste buds than Listerine and have a lower alcohol content.

Con: They aren’t as effective as antibacterial rinses in counteracting plaque and gingivitis.

Brands: Lavoris, Scope.

Tip: Bad-breath bacteria lurk on the back of the tongue, so dentists recommend brushing the tongue as well as the teeth.

Antibacterial Mouthwash

What It Does: Fights bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis. Listerine and other products that contain thymol, eucalyptol, methyl salicylate, and menthol are the only over-the-counter antibacterial mouthwashes to earn the ADA Seal of Acceptance for effectively reducing gum disease and plaque.

Best For: Anyone concerned about bad breath or gum disease. “I recommend that all my patients use an antibacterial mouthwash,” says Jason J. Psillakis, a dentist at the Columbia Presbyterian Eastside Dental Faculty Practice, in New York City. “It’s like getting an A-plus instead of an A.”

Pro: Antibacterial formulas can reduce bacteria counts in the mouth by an average of 75 percent.

Cons: Strong taste. Most formulas have a high alcohol content, which can dry the mouth.

Brands: Listerine Antiseptic, Cepacol.

Tip: Saliva has antibacterial properties, too. When you don’t have mouthwash on hand, drink lots of water to promote saliva flow.