There are many myths surrounding the use of mouthwash. We sometimes hear that its use is superfluous, or, conversely, that it can replace brushing your teeth. To take good care of your oral health, it is important to understand the benefits and limitations of this product.
At the Centre Dentaire & d’Implantologie Boucherville, we are here to help you demystify mouthwash and its uses.
Is Mouthwash Really Necessary?
Mouthwash is sometimes considered as an unnecessary aspect of oral health. However, there is no denying that it can be an important ally.
There is no reason to believe that mouthwash is not an important part of your dental care routine and you should generally take advantage of it.
In fact, mouthwash contains ingredients that help fight plaque and prevent it from building up on your teeth. In this way, it helps fight many oral problems such as gingivitis and cavities.
However, it cannot replace brushing your teeth. Mouthwash is a useful tool in the maintenance of dental health, but it does not perform the same function as brushing your teeth, which is the most important step in the daily care of your teeth.
Use mouthwash for its benefits, but understand that it is only an ally in addition to brushing and flossing.
You shouldn’t try to substitute one tool for another – they all have their place and purpose in your oral health routine.
How Often Should I Use Mouthwash?
Cases are never the same, and needs may vary; it is important to trust your dentist if he or she gives you instructions on how to use mouthwash.
However, it is generally recommended to use mouthwash once or twice a day.
When using, simply follow the instructions on the label of the product.
Usually, mouthwashes recommend gargling for a period of 30 seconds to 1 minute before spitting out the product. Then, avoid rinsing your mouth with water or eating food immediately after using the mouthwash.
If you follow the frequency and usage instructions as indicated on the mouthwash bottle, it should prove to be a powerful ally in your fight against plaque and other oral bacteria.
Is Mouthwash the Ultimate Weapon for Freshening Breath?
The positive effects that mouthwash has on breath are well known. However, it is not as miraculous a tool as you might think.
Of course, by removing plaque and other particles that remain after brushing and flossing, mouthwash helps defeat bad breath.
In addition, it contains ingredients that help to temporarily freshen breath. However, in the long run, there are too many factors that cause bad breath for mouthwash to be a cure-all.
Mouthwash does not help fight bad breath when it is caused by something outside its scope of influence, such as:
- Smoking
- Tooth decay already present
- Gastrointestinal problems, etc.
In short, there is a wide range of situations that can cause bad breath and, in many cases, mouthwash only serves to disguise it. Your dentist can inform you about bad breath and how to fight it if it becomes too annoying.
What is the Best Mouthwash?
With a wide selection of different brands and types of mouthwash, it can be difficult to choose the right product for you.
Alcohol-based mouthwashes are perfectly acceptable and get the job done, but they can cause mouth dryness. So, it might be best to opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash if you notice that the product you are using is drying out your mouth.
Whitening mouthwash does work, but don’t just expect a miracle. For effective teeth whitening, brushing your teeth remains the ultimate solution.
Finally, you may have seen “therapeutic” mouthwashes. These are usually prescribed by a dentist to help treat a known oral health problem.
If you still have questions about mouthwash, or any other aspect of your oral health, trust your dentist. At the Centre Dentaire & d’Implantologie Boucherville, our professionals are here for you! Book an appointment today!