Fluoride Mouthwashes and Their Effect on Oral Health

Oral health was recognised as an essential component of general well-being, and fluoridated mouthwashes represented an effective alternative in the prevention of diseases such as caries and gingivitis. Throughout the study, it was observed that their effectiveness depended not only on the presence of fluoride, but also on physicochemical variables such as pH, viscosity and titratable acidity. Research conducted by Marinho et al. and Van der Kaaij et al. demonstrated the preventive capacity of fluoride against carious lesions, especially in children and adolescents. However, studies such as those by Hanan et al. and Lima et al. revealed that many commercial brands had pH values below 5.5, considered potentially erosive to tooth enamel. Alcohol content was also a controversial factor. While Fernández identified that its presence tended to reduce pH, Marchetti et al. showed that alcohol-free formulations maintained similar efficacy and were safer for certain groups. The importance of transparency in labelling was also highlighted, especially in products aimed at children, as indicated by Alves et al. Finally, it was concluded that, although fluoridated mouthwashes provided proven benefits, their use should be carefully evaluated, considering both their formulation and their potential impact on public health.