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Most of us know it’s important to brush and floss your teeth every day to prevent cavities and gum disease from developing. But is this enough? Should you use mouthwash, too? Read on as Dr. Reger discusses why you might want to make mouthwash a part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
The Benefits of Using Mouthwash
There are many benefits to using mouthwash every day, and most dentists agree that it is an additional good habit. Mouthwash can improve your oral health because it:
- Removes food particles that can be left after brushing and flossing.
- Reaches all the surfaces and crevices of your teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks.
- Reduces plaque and bacteria to help prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Makes your mouth feel fresh and your breath smell good.
Is Mouthwash Enough?
With all of the benefits of using mouthwash, some people may be tempted to skip brushing and flossing. But dentists warn against this. Although mouthwash can be a very important part of a home oral care routine and it reaches spaces in the mouth that you may have missed, it’s not meant to replace regular brushing and flossing.
Types of Mouthwash
If you’d like to add mouthwash to your oral care routine, there are many to choose from. Here are just a few:
- Antiseptic mouthwash is one of the most widely used rinses. It kills germs that can cause bad breath, gum disease, and plaque.
- Fluoride mouthwash works to strengthen enamel, prevent tooth decay and freshen breath. With a fluoride rinse, it’s important to refrain from eating or drinking anything afterward for at least 30 minutes.
- Whitening mouthwash has become more and more popular as a way to not only freshen breath and prevent cavities but also keep your smile sparkling white.
- Specialty mouthwashes are available to help treat specific oral conditions, such as dry mouth and gum disease.
Mouthwash Tips
Dr. Reger offers these tips for using mouthwash:
- The best time to use mouthwash is after brushing and flossing to wash away any food particles and bacteria that you may have missed.
- Gargle with about 20 ml of mouthwash for at least 30 seconds (1 minute if using a fluoride rinse) then spit out.
- Avoid eating and drinking for half an hour afterward, especially if using a mouthwash with fluoride.
Don’t Forget Your Checkups — Contact Dr. Reger
In addition to having a good home oral hygiene routine, it’s also important to visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup and professional cleaning. If it’s been awhile since your last checkup, contact Reger Family Dental to schedule an appointment today! Dr. Reger and his team are here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!
