What mouthwash helps with gum disease? Question
An antimicrobial mouthwash can help kill the bacteria that cause gum disease. Cleveland Clinic advises an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash twice a day to maintain results after gum treatment. Your dentist may recommend a chlorhexidine rinse. Mouthwash adds to brushing and flossing and does not replace them.

What to know
- Brush two to three times a day and floss once a day.
- Tartar below the gumline needs a professional cleaning.
- A dentist can also place antibiotics directly into gum pockets.
Sources
Treatment and surgery Read next
Can receding gums grow back?No. Receding gums cannot grow back, and recession cannot be reversed.
What are the downsides of a gum graft?The main risks of a gum graft are infection, heavy bleeding and graft failure.
What can be done instead of a gum graft?The pinhole surgical technique is one option.
What is gum flap surgery?Gum flap surgery, also called pocket reduction surgery, treats moderate to advanced periodontitis.
Am I a candidate for LANAP?Good candidates for LANAP have moderate to severe periodontitis with pockets of 5 mm or more that remain after deep cleaning, and want to keep their teeth without cutting and stitches.
Does gum surgery hurt?Gum surgery is done under local anesthetic, so the procedure itself should not hurt; many offices add oral or IV sedation.