Should You Use Mouthwash?

We have spent a lot of time discussing the importance of brushing twice a day and flossing routinely, in order to control plaque and tartar buildup. Look in your bathroom cabinet. You’ll likely have a bottle of mouthwash sitting there. How can mouthwash impact your oral health?

Practical Benefits Of Mouthwash

Mouthwash is worth more than just eliminating bad breath. Mouthwash can get below the gum line and in between teeth. By doing so, mouthwash can remove dental bacterial film, and kill much of the bacteria that’s linked to gum disease and tooth decay, respiratory ailment and other serious systemic illnesses.

It is worth noting that alcohol-based mouthwash can dry out your mouth. Dry mouth prevents saliva production, which means your body cannot clear out bacteria efficiently. This in turn results in accelerated tooth decay. It is also possible that dry tissues in the mouth can contribute to mouth sores. If dry mouth is an issue, you should consider switching to an alcohol-free version of mouthwash. In fact, the notion that the “alcohol burn” means that the mouthwash is burning is just a myth and marketing tactic. You do not need to feel a burn when you rinse for your mouthwash to work.

If you do choose to use mouthwash, be careful to follow the directions as listed. Use the proper amount, and do not swallow it. Mouthwash is not recommended for children under age 12, unless an adult can provide supervision as long as they are able to swish without swallowing.

If You’d Like To Use Mouthwash, Feel Free!

Mouthwash should be considered an addition to your oral hygiene routine, not a substitute. A quick swish should not take the place of brushing in the morning, or visiting your dentist twice a year. However, rinsing once or twice a day because you enjoy it, or enjoy how it makes your breath smell, is quite alright. But know that it is not a substitute for gum disease prevention, and that regular checkups are the only way to ensure a clean mouth.