Does Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash Help With Bad Breath?

|Marc Patterson
Clear measuring cup filled with hypochlorous acid oral rinse to the 1 oz mark for fresh breath and good daily oral hygiene

Does hypochlorous acid mouthwash help with bad breath?

Yes. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) mouthwash can help with bad breath by helping reduce odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria produce compounds that contribute to bad breath, so reducing them helps address a source of the odor rather than simply masking it with a strong flavor.

How Does Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwas Help With Bad Breath

Certain bacteria in the mouth feed on food debris, dead cells, and proteins. As they break down this material, they release sulfur-containing gases called volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), a major cause of bad breath.[1]

HOCl is an antimicrobial that helps reduce bacteria throughout the mouth. Human clinical research has shown that rinsing with HOCl can reduce salivary bacteria, including research evaluating a 100 ppm HOCl mouthwash.[2]

By helping reduce the bacteria that produce these odor-causing gases, HOCl can help reduce bad breath at one of its sources rather than simply covering the odor with a strong flavor.

How to Use Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash for Fresher Breath

Start by removing the buildup. Brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning help remove food debris, plaque, and buildup that can contribute to bad breath. Follow with HOCl oral rinse to help reduce odor-causing bacteria.

For everyday freshness: Use River Refresh Oral Rinse at least twice daily after brushing and flossing. Swish ½–1 oz (15–30 mL) throughout your mouth for 30–60 seconds, gargling if desired, then spit out.

For on-the-go freshness: Use the rinse after meals, while traveling, or anytime you want to freshen your breath when brushing isn't convenient.

For complete instructions, including using a compatible oral irrigator or water flosser, see How to Use Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash & Oral Rinse.

When Bad Breath May Need More Than Mouthwash

Bad breath isn't always caused by everyday bacterial buildup. Dry mouth, gum disease, and other oral-health concerns can contribute to persistent odor.

If bad breath continues despite regular brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, and mouthwash, a dentist can help identify what's causing it.

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Oral Care Related Articles

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References

1. The Relationship Between Oral Malodor and Volatile Sulfur Compound-Producing Bacteria
Krespi YP, Shrime MG, Kacker A. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. 2006. View Source | PubMed
Peer-reviewed review of the relationship between oral bacteria, protein breakdown, volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), and bad breath.

2. Effects of Hypochlorous Acid Mouthwash on Salivary Bacteria Including Staphylococcus aureus in Patients With Periodontal Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Lin YC, Tsai CF, Huang HL. BMC Oral Health. 2023. View Source | PubMed
Randomized controlled trial evaluating 100 ppm HOCl mouthwash and its effect on salivary bacterial counts.

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