[Mouthwashes: the supply in Belgium reviewed on the basis of recent literature]

In recent days mouthrinses became a more and more popular tool in the oral hygiene regime. Different manufacturers commercialize their products in the grey area between cosmetics and medicine. However, one must realize that these products must be used within the limitations of their potential. The aim of this article is to present a complete overview of mouthrinses--and their active components--available on the Belgian market based on the recent literature. The focus is placed mainly on their antibacterial capacity, but also other indications such as anticariogenic activity, halitosis management, hypersensitivity management, anti-mucositis and anti-erosive actions are discussed.