Introduction: Can a Simple Mouthwash Like Listerine Cure a Tooth Infection?
If you’ve ever felt the sharp, throbbing pain of a tooth infection, chances are you’ve reached for anything in your bathroom cabinet to make it stop—including your trusty bottle of Listerine. But will Listerine kill tooth infection, or is that just wishful thinking?
With rising dental costs, busy schedules, and a growing preference for DIY remedies in 2025, more Americans are asking if over-the-counter products like Listerine can fight off oral infections. Let’s explore what Listerine can and can’t do, backed by science and expert opinion.
What Exactly Is a Tooth Infection?
A tooth infection (also called a dental abscess) is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It typically develops due to:
- Deep decay or cavities
- Gum disease (periodontitis)
- A cracked tooth
- Failed dental work
The infection can spread from the tooth root to the gums, jaw, and even bloodstream if left untreated.
Symptoms include:
- Intense, throbbing tooth pain
- Swollen gums or face
- Sensitivity to temperature
- Bad breath or foul taste in the mouth
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes
What Is Listerine and How Does It Work?
Listerine is an antiseptic mouthwash that contains ingredients like:
- Eucalyptol
- Menthol
- Thymol
- Methyl salicylate
- Alcohol (in most formulas)
These ingredients are designed to kill oral bacteria, reduce plaque, and freshen breath. Listerine is ADA-approved and has been proven effective at reducing gingivitis and plaque buildup.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), Listerine is one of the few over-the-counter rinses shown to significantly reduce plaque and gingivitis.
Source: ADA MouthHealthy
Will Listerine Kill Tooth Infection?
Short answer: Listerine can kill some surface bacteria, but it won’t eliminate a deep tooth infection.
Why Listerine Helps:
- Reduces bacterial load in the mouth
- Can lower inflammation in early gum disease
- Provides temporary relief from minor discomfort
- Helps with bad breath associated with infection
Why Listerine Is Not a Cure:
- Cannot reach deep inside the tooth root or abscess
- Doesn’t treat pus-filled infections or swelling
- Won’t prevent bacteria from spreading to your bloodstream
- Can mask symptoms but won’t remove the source
What the Science Says (2024–2025 Updates)
While older studies confirmed Listerine’s ability to kill bacteria, newer research in 2024 shows it’s best used as a preventive measure, not a standalone treatment for infections.
A 2024 Cleveland Clinic study found that while Listerine reduces plaque and oral bacteria by 60–70%, it has no measurable effect on root canal bacteria or infections that have penetrated dental pulp.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends antiseptic rinses as part of oral hygiene—but not as substitutes for medical intervention.
Source: NIH Oral Health Resources
When Listerine Might Be Useful
Listerine may help:
- Before seeing a dentist, to reduce surface bacteria
- For mild gum inflammation (gingivitis)
- After dental work, as advised by your provider
- To maintain oral hygiene and prevent future infections
Listerine is NOT enough if you have:
- Swelling in the jaw or cheek
- Pain that lasts more than 2 days
- Fever, chills, or signs of systemic infection
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
Other Mouthwashes That Can Help (But Still Not Cure)
While Listerine is popular, other rinses may offer additional benefits:
| Mouthwash | Best For |
|---|---|
| Chlorhexidine (Rx only) | Prescription mouthwash for serious infections |
| Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse | Mild antibacterial properties and helps with swelling |
| Saltwater Rinse | Natural way to soothe irritation and draw out fluid |
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend saltwater rinses and dental care as part of infection control for oral health.
Source: CDC Oral Health
Dental Infection Treatment: What Really Works
To cure a tooth infection, professional dental care is necessary. Depending on the severity, your dentist may:
- Drain the abscess
- Perform a root canal
- Prescribe antibiotics
- Extract the tooth (if damaged beyond repair)
Antibiotics like amoxicillin or clindamycin are commonly prescribed for bacterial infections that have spread.
Preventing Tooth Infections in the First Place
Even though Listerine can’t cure a tooth infection, it does play a role in prevention. When used correctly, it helps keep harmful bacteria under control.
Tips for Prevention:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss at least once per day
- Rinse with antiseptic mouthwash (like Listerine)
- Visit your dentist every 6 months
- Avoid sugary snacks and acidic drinks
- Treat cavities or gum issues early
U.S. Dental Health Trends and Costs (2025 Outlook)
As of 2025:
- The average root canal cost in the U.S. is $1,200–$2,000 per tooth
- Over 42% of Americans delay dental visits due to cost (source: Kaiser Family Foundation)
- New federal proposals may expand dental benefits under Medicare Advantage plans
- States like Colorado and Oregon are rolling out low-cost dental clinics for underserved communities
FAQs About Listerine and Tooth Infections
Can I use Listerine after a root canal?
Yes, but wait until your dentist gives the green light. It helps reduce bacteria during healing.
Does Listerine kill all bacteria in the mouth?
No, but it significantly reduces bacterial load when used twice daily.
Can using Listerine prevent a tooth infection?
It can help prevent conditions (like plaque buildup and gum disease) that may lead to an infection—but it can’t guarantee prevention.
Final Thoughts: Will Listerine Kill Tooth Infection?
So, back to the original question: Will Listerine kill tooth infection? The answer is—it helps, but it doesn’t cure.
Listerine can be a powerful part of your oral hygiene routine, but once an infection sets in, it’s time to call your dentist. Use Listerine to maintain good dental health and prevent issues before they start—but don’t expect it to replace professional care when things go south.
Call to Action: Don’t Let a Tooth Infection Linger
Think you might have a tooth infection? Don’t wait it out with just Listerine. Use it as part of your hygiene routine, but schedule a dental appointment to get the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Taking action now could save you from more pain—and higher dental bills—later on.
About ExploreHealthToday.com
ExploreHealthToday.com was created to be a one-stop resource where readers can find up-to-date, well-researched articles on a variety of health topics. From nutrition and wellness to lifestyle and mental health, we strive to provide reliable information to help you make informed decisions about your well-being.
We believe that good health starts with good information, and our mission is to empower our readers with knowledge they can trust.
Visit us at ExploreHealthToday.com to learn more.
