Mouthwash can be very helpful for freshening your breath, but is it an essential part of a dental hygiene routine? Take a look at what dentists think of mouthwash so you can decide whether or not you should be using it.
Benefits of Mouthwash
Mouthwash is useful for cleaning parts of the mouth that a standard toothbrush is not able to reach. The act of swishing mouthwash around the mouth can unstick pieces of food from between the teeth so that you can spit them out into the sink.
Benefits of Antibacterial Mouthwash
Some mouthwashes also contain ingredients that suppress the growth of oral bacteria. Your dentist might recommend that you use this type of mouthwash if you have gum disease, which is caused by bacteria multiplying below the gum line and causing inflammation in the gum tissue.
Benefits of Fluoride Mouthwash
Some people benefit greatly from using a mouthwash that contains fluoride. This natural mineral helps to strengthen tooth enamel when it is regularly placed into contact with the teeth. Enamel is essential for keeping bacteria out of the sensitive inner areas of the teeth and therefore preventing toothache and decay.
Does Everyone Need to Use Mouthwash?
If you live in an area where fluoride is added to the water supply, then it is less necessary for you to use a mouthwash that contains fluoride, as your teeth already get plenty of fluoride exposure. However, your dentist might still recommend that you use mouthwash for its other benefits, such as combating bacteria in the mouth.
Are There Any Disadvantages to Using Mouthwash?
Mouthwash is safe for the vast majority of people to use every day. If you are allergic or sensitive to any of the ingredients commonly found in mouth rinse products, such as alcohol, then ask your dentist to recommend one that is suitable for you to use. You should try not to swallow mouthwash, as it can cause stomach aches and ingesting too much fluoride can lead to a condition called fluorosis, which causes discoloured spots to develop on the teeth.
Do You Need to Floss If You Use Mouthwash?
It is important to note that using mouthwash is not an alternative to flossing. Floss can scrape plaque from between the teeth much more effectively than swishing mouthwash around the mouth. The ideal solution is to brush, floss, and use mouthwash to ensure that your mouth gets the most thorough clean possible every day. Contact a local dentist to learn more.