In a world where convenience and sustainability are increasingly becoming a priority in our daily lives, even our oral hygiene routines are getting a makeover. For those who of you are attached to your mouthwash even during your travels, you can say goodbye to the bulky bottles and messy spills of traditional liquid mouthwash because a new and innovative solution has emerged – mouthwash tablets. These compact, portable, and eco-friendly alternatives are changing the way we think about oral care.

The innovative product offer a refreshing take on maintaining fresh breath and good dental health without the use of bottles we are all too familiar with. In the rest of this article, we will dive into the world of mouthwash tablets, exploring what they are, how they work and more importantly, do they work?

What Are Mouthwash Tablets?

Mouthwash tablets are solid and dissolvable tablets that serve as an alternative to the traditional liquid mouthwash products. These tablets can come in various shapes and sizes but they are usually small, flat, and disc-shaped. Their compact form and reduced packinging makes them easy to carry and store, making them a popular option for frequent travellers.

These tablets are typically made from a combination of ingredients similar to liquid mouthwash. These include:

• Active Ingredients: Key active ingredients commonly found in liquid mouthwash can also be found in mouthwash tablets. It includes antimicrobial agents (e.g., cetylpyridinium chloride or chlorhexidine), fluoride for cavity prevention, and ingredients for freshening breath. Similar to liquid mouthwash, some mouthwash tablets are alcohol-free, which can be gentler on the mouth and better suited for individuals with sensitive gums
• Flavorings: To enhance the taste and freshness, mouthwash tablets are often flavored with ingredients like mint, citrus, or herbal extracts.
• Foaming Agents: Some mouthwash tablets may include mild foaming agents to create a bubbly mouthwash solution when the tablet dissolves. While this is often found in liquid mouthwash, it is optional for mouthwash tablets.

Do use mouthwash tablets, dissolve them in a small amount of water, typically around 20-30 milliliters. The tablet starts to fizz and break down upon contact with water, releasing its active ingredients. When the tablet is fully dissolved, it forms a solution that tastes and works like a traditional liquid mouthwash.

Simply swish the solution around your mouth for the recommended amount of time, usually around 30 seconds to one minute. After swishing, you simply spit out the solution, just as you would with regular liquid mouthwash.

Do Mouthwash Tablets Work?

The big question remains, do mouthwash tablets actually work like their liquid counterpart? The answer is a big YES, mouthwash tablets can be equally effective at providing the benefits associated with traditional liquid mouthwash when used correctly.

Their effectiveness depends on several factors, including the specific brand and formulation of the tablet, how they are used, and individual oral hygiene needs.

Ingredients such as antimicrobial agents and fluoride are found in both tablet and liquid mouthwash. These ingredients are known to help combat bacteria that cause bad breath, reduce plaque buildup, and promote overall oral health.

The effectiveness of mouthwash tablets also relies on proper usage. Following the instructions stated above, or by the manufacturer is crucial for achieving the desired results as stated in the packaging.

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It is important to note that not all mouthwash tablets are created equal, and the effectiveness may differ. Always research and select a reputable brand, or consult your dentist for personalized recommendations.

Also, while mouthwash tablets can be as effective as liquid mouthwash, they should not be relied upon as a sole means of oral care and should be used in conjunction with other oral hygiene habits, such as regular brushing and flossing.

Making Homemade Mouthwash Tablets

Now that you know that mouthwash tablets can be as effective as the traditional mouthwash tablets, you may wonder if it is possible to make your own and save some money. Making homemade mouthwash tablets can be a fun and cost-effective way to create a personalized oral hygiene product.

Homemade mouthwash tablets typically involve a few basic ingredients and are relatively simple to make. Here’s a general recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• Baking Soda: Baking soda has mild abrasive properties and can help neutralize acids in the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
• Citric Acid: Citric acid adds a fizzy effect when the tablet dissolves and can contribute to a refreshing taste.
• Peppermint Oil (or Other Flavoring): Peppermint oil is a common choice for a minty flavor, but you can use other essential oils or flavor extracts to suit your preferences.
• Water: You’ll need water to mix the ingredients and create the tablet.
• Silicone Mold: A mold is needed to shape the tablets. Silicone molds are an excellent choice as they make it easy to remove the tablets once they’ve hardened.

The above ingredients are for a basic recipe and need not be adhered too. You can customize your homemade mouthwash tablets by adjusting the ingredients and flavors to your personal preference.

Instructions:

1. Measure Ingredients: Measure out the following:
   • 1 cup of baking soda
   • 1/2 cup of citric acid
   • 20-30 drops of peppermint oil or your chosen flavoring
   • A small amount of water for mixing (add gradually)
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the baking soda and citric acid. Mix them well until they are evenly distributed.
3. Add Flavoring: Slowly add the peppermint oil or your chosen flavoring while continuing to mix. You can adjust the amount to achieve your desired level of flavor. Be cautious not to add too much at once, as it can activate the fizzing reaction prematurely.
4. Gradually Add Water: Sprinkle a small amount of water into the mixture, a little at a time. Mix continuously until the mixture has a crumbly texture that holds together when pressed. Be cautious not to add too much water, as this can also cause premature fizzing.
5. Form Tablets: Take small amounts of the mixture and press them firmly into the silicone mold. Ensure the tablets are packed tightly to hold their shape.
6. Let Them Dry: Allow the tablets to air dry for several hours or overnight, depending on the humidity in your area. You can also speed up the drying process by placing them in a low-temperature oven (around 150°F or 65°C) for a few hours.
7. Store: Once the tablets are completely dry and hardened, remove them from the mold and store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption. If the tablets become moist due to moisture, it is advised that you discard them as they may have lost effectiveness.

Top 5 Mouthwash Tablets You Should Buy

Finding it too cumbersome to create your own homemade mouthwash tablets? Here are some of the top mouthwash tablets that you can purchase.

1. Boka Travel Size Mouthwash Tablets (90 Tablets)

Boka’s mouthwash tablets includes Probiotic Powder, offering a quick breath refresh while promoting a healthy oral microbiome and teeth remineralization. Fluoride, the usual ingredient found in mouthwash and toothpaste, is also replaced with HA, the mineral that constitutes enamel and aids in teeth remineralization. Last but not least, the tablet does not require any water, making it convenient for its user. Simply chew, swish, spit, and smile!

2. Dr. Ginger’s All-Natural Mouthwash Tablets (60 Tablets)

Dr Ginger’s mouthwash tablets are made with organic Coconut Oil and Xylitol, coating the teeth in a luxuriously smooth layer that protects gums, repels bad breath and whitens teeth; the coconut oil pulling method effectively combat plaque buildup to maintain a naturally healthy oral environment. All of Dr. Ginger’s products are fluoride-free, gluten-free, alcohol-free, cruelty-free, non-GMO, and free of other common bad ingredients that can be found in some big-brand oral hygiene products.

3. Active Wow Natural Mouthwash Tablets (60 Tablets)

Active Wow’s mouthwash tablets contains spirulina, a type of blue-green algae that is rich in nutrients and anti-oxidants; it also give the tablets a beautiful blue color. Similar to Boka, Active Wow’s tablets dissolve directly in your mouth, eliminating the need for water and allowing for quick refreshment even when a sink is out of reach. The tablets are suitable for a wide range of ages, making oral hygiene engaging and accessible for the whole family.

Still not convinced about mouthwash tablets? Here are some popular organic, liquid mouthwash recommended by dentists!

Closing Thoughts

Mouthwash tablets are a modern and convenient alternative to traditional liquid mouthwash, offering several advantages that make them an appealing choice for many. The convenience of it, along with their eco-friendly packaging and travel-friendly nature, makes them an attractive option for those looking to simplify their oral care routine while reducing their environmental footprint.

And do they work? Yes, they can be effective if used correctly. That said, their effectiveness also vary depending on the specific brand and formulation.

Ultimately, the decision to use mouthwash tablets boils down to personal preference and lifestyle. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or an eco-conscious consumer, these small mouthwash tablets are worth considering as a modern solution for your oral care needs.