The Truth about Mouthwash

Mouthwash is an essential addition to anyone’s dental care routine. It helps clean the mouth and get rid of oral disease-causing bacteria. However, there are some misconceptions surrounding the use of it. Want to learn the truth about mouthwash?  Keep reading to learn what will help demystify the confusion around the intended use of mouthwash.

Helps Fight Gum Diseases

Ordinarily, cavity-causing bacteria attaches itself to your teeth and releases acid that breaks down the tooth enamel. Rinsing your mouth out with mouthwash can help to keep some of this bacteria at bay, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Not a Solution to Bad Breath

Contrary to popular belief, mouthwash isn’t a cure for bad breath. Instead, it can be used as a temporary mask for bad breath. In most cases, bad breath stems from the stomach, lungs, or a more serious issue regarding the mouth. Therefore, you need to seek medical attention if it persists, as it could indicate an underlying health issue.

Helps Prevents Tooth Decay

By killing bacteria on your teeth and strengthening your enamel, mouthwash can help protect your teeth against tooth decay. Using it daily will ensure your teeth stay healthy and free from cavities. Typically, a person will use it after meals or after they brush their teeth.

It is Safe for Pregnant Women to Use

Pregnant women should observe good oral hygiene to avoid developing oral diseases like cavities, gum infections, and inflammation. Practices such as rinsing your mouth regularly using mouthwash will help prevent cavities and gum diseases in pregnant women. While it is generally regarded that mouthwash use is safe during pregnancy, you will always want to consult with your healthcare professional. It is also not intended to be swallowed.

Not a Replacement for a Toothbrush

While mouthwash kills cavity-causing bacteria, it cannot be used as a replacement for a toothbrush. A toothbrush removes plaque and food residue from your gums and teeth. If anything, you should brush your teeth and rinse your mouth using it for optimum results.

Time Matters When Rinsing Using Mouthwash

While rinsing your mouth using mouthwash might sting, you need to hold it for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This is the minimum amount of time you need for the wash to work effectively.

Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash as part of your daily oral hygiene habit will improve your dental health and prevent oral diseases from developing in your mouth.

For more guidance on caring for your oral health, reach out to us at 479.646.0706 or walk into River Valley Smile Center and talk to our dental experts. Check us out on Facebook to stay up to date on our weekly blog content!