When it comes to oral health, many people question the use of mouthwash. While mouthwash does not replace brushing and flossing, it’s a good way to round out a healthy dental regimen.
Why Do We Use Mouthwash?
Mouthwash is a simple but effective method to get teeth cleaner and whiter. Using a mouthwash or an oral rinse can benefit oral health and also improve the appearance of teeth. While not everyone uses mouthwash, it’s a good option to improve or maintain good oral health along with regular brushing and flossing.
How Does it Benefit Our Oral Health?
There are a few key benefits that you can achieve by using mouthwash on a regular basis.
- Reduces bacteria that are missed with brushing and flossing. Mouthwashes and rinses work to remove any plaque that may be left behind even after brushing and flossing teeth. They also help to rinse out any remaining food particles. In short, using a mouthwash reduces your risk of dental decay that can occur over time.
- Freshens Breath. Many people use a mouthwash simply because they want to enjoy fresher breath. Many foods cause bad breath and most people notice that their breath naturally appears bad over time. Certain foods such as garlic and onions especially contribute to bad breath. Mouthwashes work to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath.
- Reduce Ulcer Discomfort. Ulcers make eating painful and can be challenging to heal. However, using a mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine may help to reduce the pain. It also works to improve healing and prevent the ulcers from becoming infected.
- Assist with Treating and Preventing Gingivitis. Just like mouthwash aids in preventing tooth decay, it can also help to prevent or reduce the risk of gingivitis or gum disease. Making sure that the gums are clean can be challenging with just brushing and flossing so a mouthwash helps to complete the process.
- Mouthwashes are ADA approved. Not all mouthwashes are approved by the ADA. However, the ADA does approve of mouthwash and will add their approval sign-on mouthwashes that are known to be effective.
Approved Mouthwashes
Not every mouthwash offers the same benefits. These are several types of mouthwash that are recommended as well as their benefits.
‣ Colgate Savacol Range
This mouthwash will reduce the discomfort of mouth ulcers. It also works to prevent dental plaque and gingivitis in addition to preventing denture breath.
https://www.colgateprofessional.com.au/products/products-list/colgate-savacol-mouthwash
‣ Listerine Range
Listerine is a brand of mouthwash that has multiple products available. However, their products can be used to help prevent cavities, kill bad breath and freshen breath.
https://www.listerine.com/mouthwash/anticavity/listerine-total-care-anticavity-mouthwash
‣ Dentitex Range
Dentitix is a brand of mouthwash that also offers benefits of mouth cleaning and preventing plaque buildup.
How Mouthwashes Receive Approval
Not all oral products are approved and oral health products have to be successfully tested and vetted against the Seal of Approval guidelines. These are the following mouthwashes that have received this seal of approval:
‣ Colgate Oral Care Colgate Savacol Mouth and Throat rinse Mint
‣ Colgate Savacol Mouth and Throat rinse Freshmint
‣ Colgate Savacol Mouth and Throat rinse Alcohol-Free
‣ Johnson and Johnson Listerine Coolmint
‣ Listerine Freshburst
‣ Listerine Mouth Rinse
‣ Listerine Tartar Control Antiseptic
‣ Listerine Teeth Defence
‣ Listerine Total Care Mouthwash
‣ Listerine Total Care Sensitive
‣ Trendpac Coles Mouthwash
‣ Dentitex Tartar Control
‣ Dentitex Teeth Defence
‣ Dentitex Gentle Care Zero
‣ Dentitex Ultra Fresh Burst
Consumers should be aware that manufacturers cannot purchase this approval. Instead, using it is only granted after being tested by a team of expert dentists. They check that the product meets the relevant standards set forth by Australia which are mandated by the government.
Even after this initial approval, the product goes to undergo re-testing. Products are re-tested every three years to ensure that they still meet quality standards.
Key Mouthwash Ingredients
When it comes to the ingredients in mouthwash, which ones are most important? These are a few ingredients found in mouthwash and how they work.
* Fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens enamel. It’s important for children’s teeth especially. This mouthwash should not be swallowed though and only use a small amount for children.
* Alcohol/Alcohol-Free
While alcohol-containing mouthwashes are a way to get rid of bacteria, these mouthwashes can dry out the mouth. They may prevent saliva production which works as a natural mouthwash. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash if you struggle with dry mouth.
* Salt Water Mouthwash
A simple saltwater mouthwash is a good option short term, especially after dental surgery. Salt works as a natural disinfectant and helps to eliminate swelling. It’s recommended to use a saltwater mouthwash for two to three weeks after surgery to prevent infection and ulcers. However, do not use this long-term as it can lead to tooth erosion by softening enamel and making teeth more prone to cavities.
What Mouthwashes Do We Recommend to Patients?
There are a few types of mouthwash that we recommend:
* Savacol- alcohol-free and gentle on your mouth
* Curasept- chlorhexidine mouthwash
* Oral 7- lubricating mouthwash that will help with dry mouth
Why Do People Use Mouthwash?
There are many benefits to adding mouthwash to your daily oral routine. It has many benefits but it works most effectively when you add mouthwash to both brushing and flossing. Mouthwash will eliminate any bacteria that you may have missed and also helps to reduce the discomfort that you may experience due to oral ulcers. It also prevents gingivitis and can reduce your risk of infection after dental surgery or procedures.
Which Brand Should I Use?
There are many brands of mouthwash available today and it can be hard to find the right one for you. The best way to go about choosing a mouthwash is to look for the ADA Seal of Approval. The Australian Dental Association adds this Seal of Approval for dental products that are effective and safe.
If you’ve wondered if mouthwash is the right choice for you, then this article provides information about its uses and benefits. Make sure to talk to your dentist about any specific concerns regarding mouthwash when starting to add it to your daily routine.
