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About What Makes Mouthwash Work

Many people use mouthwash at least once a day. Mouthwash can keep your breath fresh and protect your teeth. How does it work, and what’s the best way to use it? Here’s what you need to know about mouthwash and oral hygiene.

Benefits of Mouthwash

It coats your teeth, tongue, and gums with antibacterial and antiseptic ingredients.

  • It has long-lasting effects.

  • Mouthwash can freshen breath and prevent cavities.

  • While it can’t replace brushing and flossing, it can contribute to good oral health.

Choosing a Mouthwash

It can be confusing to walk into a drugstore and see dozens of mouthwash types on the shelves. Which one is right for you?

When you select mouthwash, look for the ingredients that give you the benefits you want.

Breath Freshening Mouthwash

This mouthwash doesn’t provide oral health benefits. It helps get your breath fresh, but it won’t help you fight cavities. If you have chronic bad breath, you may have gum disease or another dental condition. Consult your dentist for the right treatment options.

Antiseptic or Anti-Plaque Mouthwash

This mouthwash offers protection from germs. Look for ingredients that help keep bacteria and plaque from building up on your teeth. This mouthwash should contain the best cavity-fighting ingredients, including cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, thymol, and triclosan.

Fluoride Mouthwash

If you have difficulty keeping your teeth healthy, you may need additional fluoride. Although you might think only children need extra fluoride, there are adults who need extra help to fight cavities. Look for a solution of 0.05% of sodium fluoride.

How To Use Mouthwash

Add mouthwash to your regular flossing and brushing routine. There is some debate about whether it’s best to use mouthwash before or after you brush. Your dentist or dental hygienist can advise you on this.

The most important part of using mouthwash is to keep it in your mouth long enough. You should swish or gargle for a minimum of one full minute. Two minutes would be better.

Most mouthwash ingredients won’t begin working until they have been in contact with your mouth's surfaces for a full minute. After you spit out the mouthwash, you can rinse with water or allow the leftover mouthwash to stay on your teeth. If you choose to leave it on your teeth, don’t eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes.

Use mouthwash in addition to brushing and flossing. Remember that mouthwash gives your oral health a boost but is not a cure for underlying problems.

Keep Your Teeth and Gums Healthy

Do you have questions about mouthwash or dental hygiene? Make an appointment at Malan Family Dentistry. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you keep your teeth strong and healthy. Call us today.