Here’s All the Fresh Facts About Mouthwash

Brushing and flossing are the backbone of every oral hygiene routine. But do you also wonder what other products out there can help you enhance your dental regimen … and your smile?  Let’s talk about mouthwash! If you are looking to “freshen” up your daily dental routine, it’s time to get the facts about mouthwash.

The Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry team has compiled the following quick and handy Q&A. It will give you all the latest know-how and fresh facts about the benefits of mouthwash:

What is Beneficial About Mouthwash? Why Should I Add it to My Oral Hygiene Routine?

While mouthwash has always been a go-to for those seeking fresh breath, it has other oral health benefits worth noting. Consistent use of mouthwash can help reduce the harmful bacteria that breeds in your mouth while also controlling plaque and slowing down the formation of tartar on the teeth. As we “swish,” we are also able to reach places that our floss and toothbrush can’t. These factors make mouthwash a beneficial “boost” to everyone’s oral hygiene routine.

Aren’t all Mouthwashes Basically the Same?

Not necessarily. There are many, many mouthwashes on the market today and these different products contain varying formulas and ingredients. Some mouthwashes are created to be cosmetic in nature (for fresh breath only), while others are engineered to be more therapeutic. For example, therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients such as fluoride, peroxide and antimicrobials that are designed to kill bad breath. These mouthwashes also effectively treat gingivitis and tooth decay and can even help whiten your teeth.

Do I Still Need to Brush My Teeth If I Use Mouthwash?

Absolutely! Mouthwash should be viewed as a helpful addition to your oral care routine instead of a short cut or replacement. It’s important for patients to remember that mouthwash can effectively kill bacteria on the surface of the teeth. But it does not address other underlying causes of bad breath. Think of it as a preventative “finishing tool” vs a cure all — and always, always, always, stick to your full daily dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing at least twice daily! 

What is The Correct Way to Use Mouthwash? 

Before simply swishing and spitting, consider the following sequence of steps to ensure the most effective use of mouthwash:

1) Brush your teeth first – but be sure to wait a bit before using mouthwash so that you don’t immediately rinse away the fluoride from your toothpaste.

2) Follow directions in order to correctly measure out the mouthwash.

3) Swish with your mouth closed for at least 30 seconds but be careful not to swallow!

4)  Spit — and voila – fresh breath!

Is Mouthwash Safe to Use? Get the fact about mouthwash use:

It’s important to be well-informed about any of the products you use regularly as part of your oral health routine. When it comes to selecting a safe and effective mouthwash, be sure to look for brands that have the ADA Seal of Acceptance. Parents should also be aware that mouthwash is only safely recommended for kids ages 6 and older. Young children should also only rinse under the supervision of an adult up until they are roughly 12-years-old.

Which Mouthwash Is Right for Me?

Understand that while there are many mouthwashes on the market, there is no one-size-fits-all approach! Just as you normally select the right toothbrush or toothpaste that suits your needs and preference, the same philosophy applies to mouthwash. A good way to start is by thinking of your biggest priorities –- for example, fresher breath vs. whiter teeth vs. plaque control.  Competing mouthwash brands and products will offer different selling points to help you narrow your selection based on your personal criteria. There are also options for those who wish to freshen their breath but prefer natural remedies. Some natural mouthwash alternatives include salt water rinses, vinegars and essential oils.

We all want fresh breath (for ourselves and those around us)!; ) Mouthwash is safe, simple to use and easy to incorporate into your daily oral hygiene routine. So, keep the above facts about mouthwash fresh in your mind and be sure to keep in touch with the Dr. E Cosmetic Family & Dentistry team if you have any questions or concerns about your dental health regimen!

We’re always here to help with your dental needs! Contact the Dr. E Cosmetic & Family Dentistry team at 480-494-2435