sodium chloride (University of Jordan)

Warm saline mouth rinse (WSMR) is a therapeutic oral solution composed of sodium chloride dissolved in warm water. It is widely utilized in clinical dentistry as a cost-effective, non-irritating adjunct for post-operative care, particularly following tooth extractions or oral surgery. The mechanism of action is primarily physical and osmotic; the salt concentration helps draw fluid out of inflamed tissues to reduce edema, while the warm temperature promotes localized vasodilation and blood flow to accelerate the healing process. Additionally, it aids in the mechanical debridement of food debris and bacteria from the surgical site, maintaining oral hygiene without the potential cytotoxicity associated with stronger antiseptic agents like chlorhexidine.

Other names

warm saline mouth rinseWSMRsalt water rinsesaline mouthwashsaline