Should I Add Mouthwash to My Oral Hygiene Routine?

If we asked you to list the main products you need to take care of your smile, chances are that “toothbrush”, “toothpaste”, and “floss” would be the top answers. Each of these items are beneficial for your oral healthcare routine at home. But what about mouthwash? While some patients use it every day before or after brushing, many patients only use it sparingly when they need to give their mouth a kick of freshness. And other patients think it’s totally unnecessary.

Is Mouthwash Beneficial?

Rinsing with an alcohol-free mouthwash can help keep your breath fresh and fight against cavities and gum disease. Some mouthwashes come with fluoride to help remineralize your teeth. Some formulations are antimicrobial to combat gum disease and bad breath, or can lubricate your mouth to reduce dry mouth. There are even prescription-strength mouthrinses to help you tackle certain oral conditions.

A great way to figure out which mouthwash to choose amid the many on the market is to check which products have the American Dental Association seal of approval. These products have been tested for their effectiveness. We also recommend consulting with our team about your specific needs.

It Is Not a Substitute for Brushing & Flossing

As effective as mouthwash can be, don’t think about ditching your other dental supplies. It’s still important that you’re brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing every day to completely remove all the food debris and bad bacteria that’s lingering between your teeth, under your gums, and on your tongue. The swishing of mouthwash should be supplemental to the gentle scrubbing of your toothbrush and dental floss.

Reach Out to Our Team!

If you’re looking for more dental tips, please reach out to Southern Dental Munford. Our team would be delighted to help care for your family’s smiles with our comprehensive suite of dental services.

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Categorised in: Preventive Dental Care