antibiotic mouthwash
1 Anti-cavity: This type of therapeutic oral rinse or mouthwash contains fluoride, which helps strengthen teeth and prevent decay. 2  Anti-cavity rinses are available OTC and by prescription (offering a higher-concentration of fluoride). In addition to antibiotic and antiseptic mouthwash, another type of mouthwash available by prescription is a type of anti-fungal rinse. Anti-fungal mouthwash may be prescribed to treat a persistent case of thrush, which can sometimes occur as the result of taking oral antibiotics. An antibiotic mouthwash is not the same thing as an antiseptic mouthwash, which is what most people buy over-the-counter to help prevent cavities and control bad breath. Instead, it is an oral solution that contains an antibiotic medication and is usually available only by prescription. Reviewed By: Mahnaz Fatahzadeh, DMD. An oral rinse (mouth rinse or mouthwash) is a liquid solution that you swish around your entire mouth  teeth, gums and tongue  to help promote oral hygiene, reduce oral discomfort, provide moisture to oral tissues or help with bad breath. Cosmetic oral rinses, available as commercial, OTC solutions, may temporarily control or reduce bad breath (halitosis), rinse away oral debris, diminish bacteria in your mouth and leave it with a pleasant, refreshing taste. Some oral rinses contain whiteners to help whiten the teeth. Mouthwash that is specifically for halitosis should not contain alcohol, a common ingredient in many commercial mouthwashes. Alcohol is a drying agent that may worsen bad breath by creating an environment suitable for bacterial growth. Another ingredient to skip in a good mouthwash is sodium lauryl sulfate. Mouthwash is an oral hygiene enhancer that when used in conjunction with proper brushing, flossing, and dental visits can combat bad breath and promote oral health. The most common active ingredient in antibiotic mouthwash is the drug chlorhexidine, a chemical antimicrobial typically used to treat gum disease. A dentist may prescribe a chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse when signs of gum disease are present. These signs include inflammation, redness and bleeding of the gums. Your dentist may recommend or prescribe certain types of oral rinses if you are at high risk of tooth decay, gum inflammation, dry mouth (xerostomia, a lack of saliva that can cause an increased risk of tooth decay) or gum disease. There are many situations and conditions for which an antibiotic mouthwash may be prescribed, but for the prevention of gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, an antiseptic mouthwash along with regular brushing and flossing is sufficient for most people.
It is not the same thing as an antiseptic mouthwash, which is what most people buy over-the-counter to help prevent cavities and control bad breath.