It is known that mouthwashes can influence gingivitis; however, their role in the three different kinds of periodontitis is unclear. Some solutions have demonstrated some effect on necrotising periodontitis, yet none have been shown to influence early onset periodontitis. The literature provides us with a wide range of in vitro concentrations of substances used pure or in various mixtures in mouthwashes. Although only a few solutions can be used in a curative approach, most mouthwashes represent an essential tool in prophylaxis and thus also in post-periodontal treatment (maintenance phase). However, severe qualitative differences exist between the diverse families of mouthwashes. Many studies have shown that the use of a mouthwash associated with regular tooth cleaning was more beneficial than the utilisation of mouthrinse alone.