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Mouthwash is great stuff. It gives your breath a nice fresh smell, it reinvigorates your mouth and in general, it’s a really good addition to your oral health routine.
Mouthwash can be a beneficial addition to your oral hygiene routine, but it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Here are some situations in which using mouthwash can be helpful:
1. To freshen breath: Mouthwash can temporarily freshen breath by killing bacteria that cause bad breath. It can be especially useful in situations where you can’t brush your teeth, like after eating a meal away from home.
2. To reduce plaque and prevent gum disease: Some mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients that can help reduce the buildup of plaque on teeth and along the gum line. Using a mouthwash with fluoride can also help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
3. To reach areas that are difficult to brush and floss: Mouthwash can reach areas in the mouth that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush or floss, such as the back of the mouth or in between teeth. This can help reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease in these hard-to-reach areas.
4. To soothe oral irritation: Mouthwash with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can help alleviate oral irritation, such as sores or minor gum inflammation.
It’s also really useful to know when to use mouthwash. A majority of people will use it straight after brushing, but we recommend using it at a different time of day althogether. If you use it after brushing, you are just washing away all that lovely fluoride toothpaste that you’ve just put on with your toothbrush. So save the mouthwashing to a different time of day, such as after lunch. That way, you’ll get an extra boost of fluoride protection in the middle of the day.
It’s important to note that not all mouthwashes are created equal. Avoid ones with alcohol in, and avoid ones that are meant for short term use, such as Corsodyl. Corsodyl is fabulous if you have a temporary gum related issue, but prolongued use will stain your teeth. If you are unsure of which one to buy, ask one of our dentists next time you are in.
