PerioTrap Pharmaceuticals GmbH
Weinbergweg 22, 06120 Halle (Saale)
Dr. James Belcher, November 20, 2025
Mouthwashes under scrutiny: When they really make sense
Many people automatically reach for mouthwash after brushing their teeth – but does it actually do anything? Or are you even washing away important protective substances? In this article, you'll learn why mouthwash is often of little use right after brushing, but can definitely make a difference between meals.
What is that?
Mouthwashes come in many varieties – from fresh mint solutions to medicinal formulations. They are intended to fight bacteria, freshen breath, and sometimes even strengthen tooth enamel.
But timing is crucial: Right after brushing your teeth, you often rinse away the fluoride from the toothpaste – and that is actually meant to stay on your teeth for a long time.
Why is it important?
Fluoride forms a protective film over your teeth after brushing, strengthening the enamel. If you use mouthwash immediately afterwards, you wash away this protection.
Between meals, however, a mild rinse can help neutralize acids, loosen food particles and keep the microbiome in balance – especially if you can't brush your teeth immediately.
Science explained briefly
Studies show that those who rinse their teeth with a fluoride-free rinse immediately after brushing lose up to 30% of the fluoride effect.
From a bacteriological perspective, the ingredients in the rinse are also crucial: Aggressive ingredients like chlorhexidine kill all bacteria – including the beneficial ones. Milderly formulated rinses or products with a microbiome-friendly approach, on the other hand, help to block only the harmful germs and protect the beneficial ones.
What can you do?
- Do not rinse after brushing your teeth! Just spit so that the fluoride stays on your teeth.
- You can use mouthwash between meals – especially after snacks, coffee or wine.
- Choose rinses without harsh chemicals – or better yet: opt for microbiome-friendly products. PerioTrap, for example, uses a technology that blocks only the disease-causing mechanisms of certain bacteria without destroying the beneficial ones.
- Remember: Rinsing does not replace brushing your teeth – it complements it.
In summary
- It's best not to rinse after cleaning.
- Rinsing between meals can be useful.
- Fluoride protection only lasts without rinsing.
Did you know?
Rinsing your mouth immediately after brushing your teeth can halve the cavity protection of your toothpaste – it's better to wait 30 minutes!
Sources
- Zero, D.T. (2006). Dental caries process. J Dent Res.
- PerioTrap internal scientific documents
- Walsh, T. et al. (2019). Fluoride toothpaste efficacy and rinsing habits.