Five Ways Mouthwash Could Help Improve Your Overall Oral Health
How often should you use mouthwash? The answer depends on a number of factors, but for most people, using mouthwash daily can be helpful for their overall oral health. Continue reading to learn why and then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to get a thorough dental cleaning and exam.
- It Can Freshen Your Breath
- It Can Reduce Plaque
- Mouthwash Can Help Prevent and/or Control Tooth Decay
- It Can Slow Down Tartar’s Formation
- It Can Help Prevent (or Reduce) Gingivitis
If you have bad breath, mouthwash can help. Note that it can be great at freshening your breath or covering up something stinky you ate, like onion or garlic. However, if you have persistent bad breath, it is likely caused by something else. You should talk to your dentist to find out why you have consistent bad breath and learn what solutions we can offer.
If you choose an antimicrobial mouthwash, it can also help to control plaque buildup on the teeth. You should choose a mouthwash that is accepted by the American Dental Association. You will know it is because it will have the ADA seal on it. Mouthwash can help reduce the buildup of plaque, but it won’t affect the plaque that is at a deeper level.
If you use an alcohol-free mouthwash that has fluoride as an ingredient, then it could play an important part in preventing tooth decay. If you already have decayed teeth, then it can help slow the growth of that decay. To get the best results, wait half an hour after you brush your teeth to use your mouthwash. Then try to avoid eating or drinking for at least another half an hour.
There are two main types of mouthwash. First, therapeutic mouthwashes have fluoride and are made to strengthen teeth as well as fight tartar. They will not stop tartar from forming on their own, but they can slow down the process significantly. The second type is cosmetic, which is generally used to whiten teeth, freshen breath, or some other singular process.
The ADA says that using an antimicrobial mouthwash with fluoride is one part of a comprehensive plan to prevent gum disease, the first stage of which is gingivitis. If you already have gingivitis, then your dentist might prescribe a prescription mouthwash as part of your treatment plan.
While mouthwash can help with many dental issues, it is important to remember that it does not take the place of brushing, and no matter how well or how often you brush or use mouthwash, they do not take the place of twice-yearly dental cleanings and checkups. Contact California Dental Group now at (800) 407-0161 to move forward.
