Mouthwash isn’t mandatory, but if you use it correctly it can help you maintain good oral health. Adding a rinse to your daily routine helps you fight bad breath, cavities, and gum disease. Mouthwash can even help to remineralize your enamel or make your teeth whiter. No, you don’t really need to use mouthwash, but here are some of the reasons why you should.
Five Reasons to Start Using Mouthwash
- Get Fresher Breath
Using mouthwash after you brush will make your breath smell fresher longer. You can even use mouthwash to quickly freshen up before a meeting or after a meal. Just remember, mouthwash should never be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing. And, if you have persistent bad breath (halitosis) it might indicate a bigger problem, like tooth decay. - Fight Cavities and Gum Disease
Plaque is the #1 cause of cavities and gum disease, but mouthwash can help you fight plaque with its antimicrobial ingredients. Because it kills the bacteria that cause plaque and inflammation, mouthwash can be very beneficial for people with gum disease. Mouthwash can penetrate the pockets that form between the teeth and gums when the gums recede, and kill the bacteria that make gum disease worse. - Prevent Dry Mouth
Dehydration, smoking, and many common medications can all cause dry mouth (xerostomia). Unfortunately, the bacteria that form plaque thrive in a dry mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you have dry mouth, using an alcohol-free mouthwash can help prevent any negative side effects. Just make sure to stay away from any mouthwashes containing alcohol, because the alcohol will only dry your mouth out even more. - Strengthen Your Enamel
If you have weak enamel or receding gums, a fluoride-enriched mouthwash can help remineralize your tooth enamel. Fluoride is very important for building strong teeth. Using a fluoride mouthwash can help protect the sensitive tooth roots exposed by receding gums, and even rebuild enamel lost from daily wear. Your dentist might even recommend using a fluoride mouthwash if your teeth need some extra protection. - Get a Brighter Smile
Coffee, tea, soda, red wine, and brightly-colored sports drinks can all stain your teeth. But some types of mouthwash are formulated with whitening agents that will fight stains and gradually give you a brighter smile. Whitening mouthwash can also help keep your smile bright after a professional whitening treatment, and make its effects last longer.
What kind of mouthwash is best?
The best type of mouthwash for you will depend on the results you want to get. If you want to freshen your breath and protect your teeth, look for an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash. If you have gum disease, your dentist might recommend a prescription-strength mouthwash with stronger antibacterial agents. If you want a brighter smile, whitening toothpaste can help prevent stains.
How do I choose the right type of mouthwash?
Always look for the ADA Seal of Approval on any dental products you buy. Use alcohol-free mouthwash to keep your mouth hydrated and healthy. Choose a flavor that you like, so you’re more likely to use it every day. If you want to make sure you choose the best mouthwash for your oral health, ask us for a recommendation at your next appointment.
Preventive Dental Care in Central Park, Denver
When you take good care of your teeth, you can prevent cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, and even bad breath. Adding mouthwash to your daily brushing and flossing routines will help you keep your mouth healthy.
Regular checkups, cleanings, and fluoride treatments are also important parts of good dental health. Central Park Modern Dentistry can provide the professional preventive care you need—contact us to make an appointment today.