# Rinse and Balance
> Mouthwash targets bacteria broadly. Here is what research suggests about frequency, ingredients and when a rinse helps or is unnecessary.

## Guides
- [Chlorhexidine Rinse: A Short-Term Tool](https://mouthwash-and-microbiome-balance.pages.dev/chlorhexidine-short-term-use/): Chlorhexidine is a strong antibacterial rinse that is generally used for limited periods under the direction of a dentist or pharmacist, not as an everyday.
- [Essential Oil Rinses Explained](https://mouthwash-and-microbiome-balance.pages.dev/essential-oil-rinses/): Essential oil rinses use plant-derived oils such as menthol, thymol or eucalyptol as their active ingredients and are designed to act on bacteria in the mouth.
- [The Daily Antibacterial Rinse Debate](https://mouthwash-and-microbiome-balance.pages.dev/daily-antibacterial-rinse-debate/): Whether to use an antibacterial mouthwash every day is debated, with no single answer that fits every mouth.
- [Cetylpyridinium Rinses in Plain Language](https://mouthwash-and-microbiome-balance.pages.dev/cetylpyridinium-chloride-rinse/): A cetylpyridinium chloride rinse uses a common antimicrobial ingredient found in many over-the-counter mouthwashes.
- [When a Rinse Is Unnecessary](https://mouthwash-and-microbiome-balance.pages.dev/when-rinse-is-unnecessary/): For many healthy adults with a steady brushing and cleaning routine, a rinse adds little, and knowing when rinse is unnecessary can save effort and avoid.

## About
- [About Rinse and Balance](https://mouthwash-and-microbiome-balance.pages.dev/about/): not medical advice, how the site is funded and how guides are made

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