Good oral hygiene is essential in the fight against tooth decay and gum disease, so certain habits seem obvious. These include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash. However, the latter has been a source of controversy, with individuals questioning the efficacy of mouthwash and whether dentists recommend it. The following factors explain when and why mouthwash is dentist-approved.
It's Multipurpose
While mouthwash is known for freshening breath, this is not its only purpose. Mouthwash provides a myriad of benefits, ranging from fighting gum disease to soothing canker sores. Additionally, while brushing and flossing are essential for good oral hygiene, even flossing doesn't reach every corner of your mouth. Rinsing with mouthwash can supplement these habits and result in a cleaner mouth.
Different Types of Mouthwash
The two major categories of mouthwash are cosmetic and therapeutic. While the former targets bad breath, the latter can target anything from plaque to tooth decay. Different types of mouthwash are recommended for different people depending on their needs. For example, someone with dry mouth doesn't require an alcohol-based mouthwash – they'd benefit from a moisturizing mouthwash.
Ingredients Matter
One way to narrow down the selection of mouthwash is to consider ingredients that will benefit your specific needs. For example, fluoride helps with tooth decay, prevents cavities, and strengthens enamel, but isn't suitable for those with gum disease. Those with inflamed gums would benefit from an antiseptic mouthwash with ingredients like triclosan and chlorhexidine.
However, there is still some danger involved if you don't know what you're doing. Young children shouldn't be given mouthwash in case they swallow it – adults shouldn't swallow mouthwash either. Additionally, too much alcohol or fluoride in your mouthwash can be harmful, which is why consulting a professional is best. At Bryan Hill, DDS, Dr. Bryan Hill and can help you by discussing your specific problems.
You can call us at (509) 505-6303 to book an appointment, and we'll be sure to address any and all concerns.
Dentist Spokane, WA • Dental Blog • Bryan Hill, DDS At Bryan Hill, DDS we maintain a dental blog to help educate and inform our patients about topics that affect their oral health. Why not call us at: (509) 505-6303. Bryan Hill DDS, 9671 North Nevada St. ste. 200, Spokane, WA 99218-1146 ^ (509) 505-6303 ^ bryanhilldds.com ^ 5/25/2023 ^ Tags: dentist Spokane WA ^
Good oral hygiene is essential in the fight against tooth decay and gum disease, so certain habits seem obvious. These include brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing, and rinsing your mouth with mouthwash. However, the latter has been a source of controversy, with individuals questioning the efficacy of mouthwash and whether dentists recommend it. The following factors explain when and why mouthwash is dentist-approved.