Mouthwashes with sanguinaria
The extracts of the root of this plant have proved useful especially in the treatment of gingivitis, by virtue of their anti-plaque action.
Mouthwashes with cetylpyridinium
Especially indicated for sore throat, given the anti-inflammatory action of this active ingredient, which also exhibits a certain anti-plaque action, useful in the prevention of tooth decay and genegivitis.
Mouthwashes with tibenzonium
Especially indicated for sore throat and inflammation of the oral cavity.
Mouthwashes with delmopinol 
Indirect anti-plaque action, since delmopinol hinders the adhesion of bacteria (microfilm) to the tooth surface.
Mouthwashes with zinc and bicarbonates
Indicated in presence of halitosis. In this regard, remember that in the presence of bad breath the mouthwash does not cure the cause of the problem, but simply cancels its effects.
Mouthwashes with xylitol
Polyol with anti-plaque action, also widely used in chewing-gum and toothpaste.
Methylsalicylates based mouthwashes
Blurs antiseptic, but above all anti-inflammatory properties.
Mouthwashes based on benzalkonium chloride
Bactericidal properties; benzalkonium can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Hydrogen peroxide based mouthwashes (hydrogen peroxide):
Bland antibacterial power, but excellent detergent properties, since the gaseous oxygen molecules formed by decomposition favor the detachment of necrotic tissue and bacteria.
Lidocaine-based mouthwashes
They express an important local anesthetic affection.
Nystatin based mouthwashes
They have antifungal properties (useful for example in the presence of thrush).
Benzydamine-based mouthwashes
Anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic and antimicrobial action (used above all in the presence of stomatitis: inflammation of the mucous membranes of the oral cavity).
Mouthwashes based on aloe vera, chamomile, mucilage, carbenoxolone, triamcinolone, trioxidic peroxidized glycerol, hyaluronic acid
They form a protective film in the oral cavity, making it useful in the presence of stomatitis and mouth sores.
Extemporaneous mouthwash, rinses with water and sodium chloride (1% cooking salt):
Potentially useful in the presence of gingivitis when specific mouthwashes are not available.
Extemporaneous mouthwash, rinses with milk
Potential mineralizing properties.
NOTE: many of the substances listed above actually have a bacteriostatic or bactericidal action, demonstrated in vitro, against dental plaque. However, also because of the very small concentrations used to avoid toxic effects, the same properties do not always recur in the in vivo situation.
How to use mouthwash
As anticipated, the mouthwash should be used only and exclusively after brushing the teeth. The oral rinses must be performed with the head bent slightly towards the sink and with clenched teeth, so as to pass the disinfectant substance into the interdental spaces. In addition to the sanitizing substances present in the mouthwash itself, the mechanical action obtained by contracting and relaxing the muscular structures of the cheeks for 30-40 seconds is fundamental. In this way, in addition to the mechanical removal of food residues derived from the mechanical flow of the mouthwash, a sanitizing action is also obtained on the interdental surfaces and on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
Instead of rinsing, gargling can be performed, which consists in bubbling, in the bottom of the mouth and in the throat, the mouthwash, with the aim of dressing the mucous membranes; gargling is useful against sore throats (pharyngitis) and halitosis.
PLEASE NOTE: mouthwashes cannot be considered a substitute for professional cleaning every 6-8 months and adequate oral hygiene at home with a toothbrush and floss. Due to the potential side effects, it is important to use mouthwash only on prescription from the dentist or dental hygienist.
