Does Mouthwash Actually Work?

According to most Carlsbad dentists, along with brushing your teeth twice per day and flossing, rinsing your mouth with a quality mouthwash is yet another great way to maintain and improve your oral health. And this makes good sense given that the human mouth, on average, contains more than 6 billion bacteria. Furthermore, the mouth also houses 700 different types of species. Some of these species and bacteria are essential for good oral and physical health. However, others can contribute to diseases. Most over-the-counter mouthwashes contain antimicrobial properties, such as cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorhexidine, and essential oils. These properties work to rid the oral cavity of the harmful species and bacteria that would otherwise lead to plaque and gingivitis. What’s more, they go a long way toward freshening your breath as well.

Can Mouthwash Protect Against Cavities?

If you’re still not yet sold on the value of using a mouthwash after brushing and flossing, you should know that, along with ridding the mouth of harmful bacteria and species, reducing plaque, and protecting against gingivitis, they can also reduce your chances of developing cavities. According to dentists in La Jolla, this is because using these products flushes out bacteria and other toxins that often remain trapped in the small crevices in-between teeth despite brushing and flossing. Also, many of them contain fluoride, which fortifies enamel and repairs early-stage tooth decay. For these reasons, most dentists in the San Diego County area routinely encourage their patients to use mouthwash alongside brushing and flossing to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

Carlsbad Dentists Provide Valuable Tips for Getting the Most Out of Mouthwash

Something to note when it comes to over-the-counter mouthwash is that they are not all created equal. That said, most dentists in the greater San Diego area will advise patients to choose a brand that has the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. The reason for this is that these products have been tested and proven to be both safe and effective. Additionally, consumers should look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride as well as the antimicrobial properties detailed in this article. This combination works best for protecting against cavities and ridding the oral cavity of disease-causing bacteria and species. Once you have settled on a particular brand, you will want to pour out a cupful of mouthwash, swish it in your mouth for 30 seconds to one minute, and, lastly, spit it out.

Bottom Line

All in all, there are plenty of reasons to make using mouthwash, along with brushing twice per day and flossing, part of your daily routine when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth. That being said, if you’re not currently making use of these oral hygiene products, there is no time like the present to get started.