A swish a day: before buying a glowing red or green rinse, acquaint yourself with the array of natural mouthwash ingredients.(Buyers Guide)

A swish of mouthwash does more than freshen breath, it deans, disinfects and even helps prevent cavities and gum disease.

Bright conventional mouthwashes tempt us with their candy-like flavors and promises of long-lasting fresh breath. But it's not mint, cinnamon or super sweet flavors that give those products their vivid colors--it's chemicals. The average conventional mouthwash contains two or three artificial colors, petroleum-based products (yes, like gasoline) and even saccharin, the stuff linked to cancer in lab animals, according to research studies. Many also contain a hefty dose of alcohol, which can irritate teeth and gums over time.

Now that many natural mouthwashes are lining store shelves, you can walk away from the bright allure of synthetic freshness. Chock-full of potent natural ingredients, these rinses do more than just coat the mouth with minty sweetness, they dean, refresh and may help prevent periodontal problems with true botanicals. See below for what to look for and what to avoid when comparing products.

And remember, don't be duped by promises of mouthwash being as effective as flossing or brushing. The American Dental Association supports the use of mouthwash in addition to, not as a substitute for, brushing and flossing. Utilize all three, and you should earn a clean bill of dental health.

DR. KEN'S ANTIBACTERIAL MOUTHWASH uses green tea and vitamin C to help fight ...