Importance of using a Mouthwash
Mouthwash or oral rinse is a liquid dental hygiene product that is used to rinse the mouth. A mouthwash generally contains an antiseptic agent which is added to kill the infectious microbes present in your mouth.
Dr. Sanz at Southern Delaware Dental Specialist suggests using a mouthwash as an additive to your general oral health care routine. However, it is necessary to know that using mouthwash does not replace brushing your teeth and flossing.
HOW TO USE A MOUTHWASH?
Every mouthwash comes with a different set of instructions. If you are prescribed a medicated mouthwash by our board-certified periodontist at Southern Delaware Dental Specialist, they will give you detailed instructions on using it.
However, most of the mouthwashes are to be used after you have brushed your teeth as usual. If you use a fluoridated toothpaste, wait for some time before you use your mouthwash as it can wash away the fluoride in the toothpaste. Next, pour around 10-15 ml of mouthwash in a plastic cup and empty it into your mouth. Rinse and swirl it around the mouth for 30 seconds and then spit it out. Remember never to swallow the mouthwash.
As mentioned earlier by Dr. Sanz in Southern Delaware, mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing; it is an adjunct to these steps. Generally, you can use a mouthwash twice a day after brushing.
HOW DOES A MOUTHWASH WORK?
A mouthwash is a medicated liquid that contains various antiseptic ingredients like alcohol, chlorohexidine, menthol, etc., to kill the bacteria and disease-causing microbes in your mouth. A mouthwash can feel a little stingy, but it is normal. The ingredients in the mouthwash reach the gaps in the teeth and clear out the disease-causing microbes that can collect there.
BENEFITS OF USING A MOUTHWASH
- One of the most common reasons for using mouthwash is to fight bad breath. Combining mouthwash with your daily brushing can help fight the bacteria responsible for bad breath, leaving you with a fresh breath.
- Using a mouthwash regularly helps prevent the accumulation of bacteria-laden plaque, thus helps in preventing dental decay and gum diseases.
- It can provide relief from the pain of canker sores and helps with faster healing.
- Prevent dental cavities from increasing in size.
- Mouthwash is commonly prescribed after oral surgical procedures.
- It reaches every nook and corner of the mouth.
- If you have tested positive for coronavirus, using a chlorohexidine containing oral rinse every 3 hours can help reduce the viral load. Studies have shown that using a mouthwash can help prevent the progression of the disease.
Apart from practicing good oral health care, it is also essential to schedule regular dental visits to ensure that you stay at the top of your oral health. Delaying treatment for gum diseases can cause loose teeth and can eventually lead to teeth loss. Please schedule an appointment with our board-certified, highly skilled, and experienced periodontist, Dr. Sanz, at Southern Delaware Dental Specialist today to ensure your pearly white stays firm and healthy.
