Oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile and healthy body. With so many mouthwash options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right mouthwash. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of mouthwash, different types available, and tips for selecting the best one for your needs.
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Why Use Mouthwash?
Mouthwash is not just a breath freshener; it may offer several benefits:
1- Reduces Plaque: Antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce plaque buildup, a major contributor to gum disease and cavities.
2- Prevents Cavities: Fluoride mouthwashes can be helpful in strengthening your teeth and preventing dental cavities in adults.
3- Prevents early form of Gum Disease: Regular use of certain gum mouthwashes can help prevent gingivitis (early form of gum disease) and some other gum-related issues.
4- Fights Bad Breath & Reaches Difficult Areas: Mouthwash effectively masks and neutralizes odors if originated from the mouth, leaving your mouth feeling fresh by reaching areas that brushing and flossing might miss, providing a more thorough clean.
Do I really need to use a Mouthwash?
Generally speaking, certain mouthwashes can be helpful or even necessary in some instances, however in young healthy adults, the key factors are brushing and flossing regularly as well as routine professional cleaning with your Periodontist, Dentist, and Hygienist. Rinsing with mouthwashes is not always necessary. Consult with our Periodontist, Dr Babak Najafi to learn more about your options and personalized recommendations.
Which type of Mouthwash should I rinse with?
There are various types and brands of mouthwashes in the market; from the prescription mouthrinses to over-the-counter and herbal ones. Let’s review the main categories:
1. Antiseptic Gum Mouthwash
These Gum Mouthwashes contain active ingredients like chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride that kill bacteria. Ideal for individuals looking to reduce plaque and prevent early form of gum disease (Gingivitis). It is important to remember that you cannot treat your gum disease, just by rinsing with mouthwashes. Mouthwashes are for prevention or if gum disease has started, they can be helpful after your active periodontal treatment (surgical or nonsurgical) to maintain the good outcomes.
Make an appointment with our Periodontist for a thorough examination and comprehensive treatments.
2. Fluoride Mouthwash
Fluoride mouthwashes can help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities (Dental Caries). They are especially beneficial for individuals prone to dental caries. Again, it should be highlighted that these mouthwashes are not a treatment option.
3. Cosmetic Mouthwash
Primarily designed to freshen breath, these mouthwashes may not provide significant health benefits but can be great for on-the-go freshness.
4. Miscellaneous Mouthwashes
There are certain over-the-counter and prescription mouthwashes available to help soothing oral and gum lesions and may help in managing certain conditions.
Also, some other mouthwashes are specifically formulated to help patients with Dry Mouth (Xerostomia).
Your Periodontist or Dentist can help you with that.
Made from herbal ingredients, natural mouthwashes are also gaining more popularity these days owing to the misleading social media posts for the general public. They appeal to those seeking holistic options. However, many of these natural mouthwashes lack any scientific support and may not offer any benefits. They can even cause disastrous results. It is crucial not to get your health recommendations from social media and trust your dentist, periodontist, and oral hygienist.
Which Mouthwash should I use?
Not everyone would need to rinse with a mouthwash. As discussed previously, the key factors in oral health are brushing and flossing regularly with a proper technique and for a long time, supplemented by routine professional cleanings and check-ups by your Periodontist, Dentist, and Oral Hygienist.
However, in certain instances, specific mouthwashes may be prescribed or recommended by your Periodontist.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose one. It is essential to consult with your Periodontist and Dentist to choose a product that aligns with your special needs. Generally speaking, alcohol-free mouthwashes are usually preferred over the others for the long term daily use, if needed. However, you need to answer these questions first; Do you really need a mouthwash?
Have you asked your Periodontist/ Dentist?
Do you need it for helping you in preventing cavities or gum disease?
Which one are you more prone to?
Have you had a recent dental or periodontal surgery?
Do you have implants or bridges?
Do you have orthodontic braces?
Are you going through active periodontal treatment?
Are your teeth sensitive?
Is your mouth dry?
Or do you have any other condition that may require rinsing with mouthwashes?
These are all the questions that you should ask yourself and consult with your Periodontist/ Dentist prior to buying a certain mouthwash. Remember, mouthwash should complement regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings by your Periodontist/ Dentist, not replace them.