suuvesi

Suuvesi is the Finnish term for mouthwash, a liquid product used to rinse the mouth and supplement daily oral hygiene. Commonly applied after brushing and flossing or as needed to freshen breath, Suuvesi is swirled in the mouth for a set period before being spat out. It is not intended to be swallowed.

While many Suuvesi formulations are cosmetic and designed to mask odor and provide a pleasant taste, others are therapeutic and contain active ingredients to reduce plaque, prevent caries, or treat gingivitis. Typical active ingredients include fluoride for cavity prevention, and antiseptics such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride. Some rinses rely on essential oils or peroxide-based compounds.

Formulations vary in base composition. Most are water-based with alcohol as a solvent in many products, though alcohol-free versions are widely available. Flavorings, sweeteners, and colorants are common to improve user experience.

Regulation varies by country. In Finland and other EU jurisdictions, mouthwashes may be regulated as cosmetics or medicinal products depending on claims and ingredients. Guidelines advise using mouthwash as a supplement rather than a substitute for brushing, and to limit use among children to avoid accidental ingestion. Long-term use of certain antiseptic rinses can cause side effects such as taste alteration or tooth staining.