Mouthwash has become a staple in many oral hygiene routines, offering benefits beyond fresh breath. However, there is often confusion about how to use mouthwash effectively. Let’s explore the truth about mouthwash today.
How Mouthwash Works and Its Benefits
Mouthwash contains active ingredients, such as cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), chlorhexidine, and essential oils, that work together to promote oral health in several ways. CPC functions as a broad-spectrum antiseptic. It interacts with microbial cell surfaces and integrates into bacterial membranes, disrupting their integrity and leading to cell death. In turn, it reduces plaque formation and combat gingivitis.
Chlorhexidine, another potent antimicrobial agent in some mouthwashes, exhibits a unique property called “substantivity.” This allows it to adhere to oral surfaces, providing prolonged antimicrobial activity even after rinsing.
Here’s a quick list of the benefits of using mouthwash as part of your daily oral care routine:
- Mouthwash can reduce plaque by up to 56% more than brushing alone.
- Fluoride-containing mouthwashes help strengthen tooth enamel, providing extra protection against cavities.
- Since it can kill bacteria that cause gum disease, mouthwash helps maintain healthy gums and can even treat early stages of gum disease.
- Mouthwash kills odour-causing bacteria, providing up to 24-hour fresh breath protection.
- Mouthwash can reach areas that brushing might miss, targeting virtually 100% of the mouth.
- Some mouthwashes contain ingredients that can help lift surface stains, contributing to whiter teeth.
While mouthwash offers these benefits, it should complement, not replace, regular brushing and flossing. When used as part of a full oral hygiene routine, mouthwash can significantly contribute to overall oral health and a brighter smile.
How Often Should You Use Mouthwash?
But how often are you supposed to use mouthwash?
Here’s the consensus among dental professionals: using mouthwash once or twice a day is sufficient for most people. Then again, keep in mind that mouthwash should complement, not replace, the standard dental routine of brushing and flossing.
So, we’ve already answered the common question: Can you use mouthwash two times a day? Now, is it safe to go over that number? Many dental professionals remind the public that overuse of mouthwash, particularly those containing alcohol, can potentially lead to dry mouth or other oral health issues.
Next, let’s address this question: How long are you supposed to use mouthwash?
The Queensland Government’s health bulletin classifies mouthwash into two types: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes are over-the-counter products that help remove debris, temporarily reduce bad breath, and freshen the mouth. They are effective as short-term oral antiseptics. Therapeutic mouthwashes offer the same benefits as cosmetic ones but contain additional active ingredients that help protect against oral diseases. A dental professional may recommend short-term use of specific mouthwashes for certain conditions or individuals unable to brush effectively. So, if you wonder how long you should keep using mouthwash, it depends on whether you use it for cosmetic or therapeutic purposes.
When to Use Mouthwash
Now, it’s time to address the age-old question: when is the best time to use mouthwash? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. There’s some debate in the dental community about whether it’s better to use mouthwash before or after brushing. According to the Mayo Clinic, using mouthwash after you brush and floss your teeth is the best way to target all areas of the mouth. Doing so rinses away any remaining debris loosened by brushing and flossing.
However, the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) offers a different perspective. They recommend against using mouthwash right after brushing, as it may wash away the protective fluoride from your toothpaste. Instead, they suggest using mouthwash at a different time of day. This approach aims to maximise the benefits of both your fluoride toothpaste and your mouthwash without one interfering with the other.
Given these differing opinions, what’s the best course of action? A balanced approach might be to use mouthwash at a separate time from brushing. For instance, if you brush your teeth in the morning and evening, you could use mouthwash after lunch. This way, you get the benefits of mouthwash without potentially diminishing the effects of your fluoride toothpaste.
How to Use Mouthwash Properly
Using mouthwash effectively involves more than just timing; technique matters, too. Here’s how to get the most out of your mouthwash:
- Start by choosing a mouthwash with an ADA’s Seal of Approval. This ensures that the product has been tested and proven safe and effective.
- Pour the recommended amount into a cup—usually about 20ml.
- Take the mouthwash into your mouth and swish it around vigorously for a full 30 seconds. Be sure to gargle if the instructions recommend it, as this can help reach the back of the throat and tongue.
- After 30 seconds, spit the mouthwash out completely. Importantly, resist the urge to rinse your mouth with water afterwards. This allows the active ingredients in the mouthwash to continue working on your teeth and gums.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
While mouthwash can be a good addition to your oral care routine, you must be aware of potential precautions and side effects. Mouthwash is not recommended for children under six years old due to the risk of swallowing. Some people may experience oral irritation, stinging, or burning sensations when using mouthwash. If you experience such symptoms, it’s best to discontinue use and consult your dentist.
Summing It Up
In conclusion, mouthwash can be an effective tool in maintaining oral health when used correctly. You can maximise its benefits by using it once or twice daily, at a time separate from brushing and following proper usage techniques. Again, we’d like to remind you that mouthwash is a supplement to, not a replacement for, brushing & flossing. When combined with a balanced diet and regular dental check-ups, proper use of mouthwash can contribute to a healthier, fresher smile.
