Mouthwashes: Rationale for use

To update the rationale for the use of mouthwashes and summarize data on the incorporation of an antibacterial, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), into a new mouthwash formulation. Data from various published articles are reviewed which demonstrate the value of mouthwashes. Also this Special Issue provides research supporting the efficacy of 0.075% cetylpyridinium chloride in a new, alcohol-free mouthwash formulation (Colgate Total).

Benefits of mouthwashes include improving the reduction of plaque biofilm as an adjunct to oral hygiene, killing bacteria in areas difficult to reach by normal oral hygiene, killing bacteria on non-tooth oral surfaces, reaching bacteria subgingivally by placement in an irrigator, and supporting a positive effect on oral health by reducing bacteremia from oral micro-organisms. The benefits of including CPC in this new formulation are demonstrated by in vitro and clinical studies which demonstrate the efficacy of this formulation of CPC on biofilm as well as an effect on the reduction of plaque and gingivitis in three clinical studies.