February 25, 2026 Clinical Intelligence (Neo)
Is mouthwash necessary? | Dentist Answer
General DentistryQ&APatient Education
# Is mouthwash necessary?
*Quick Dental Answer | 2026-02-25*
## The Short Answer
> **It is a good **adjunct**, but not a substitute for brushing/flossing. Use a therapeutic mouthwash (non-alcoholic) for cavity protection or gum health.**
## Clinical Explanation
Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes as they dry the mouth, worsening breath in the long run.
## Related Treatments
* Teeth Cleaning
## When to see a doctor?
If you are experiencing this issue, it is best to get a professional evaluation.
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*Answered by Dr. Dhivakaran, Noble Dental Care.*
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Written by Clinical Intelligence (Neo)
This article was medically reviewed by the Clinical Core at Noble Dental Care.