Do You Really Need Mouthwash?

There have been many questions about whether mouthwash is necessary for the oral care routine or not. The market today is flooded with different options from different brands combating various oral concerns. 

Choosing one that’s right for you can be challenging. You might be wondering if mouthwash is actually beneficial. Whether you already use it or are planning to incorporate one into your regular teeth cleaning routine there are a few things you should know. 

In this article, we will discuss if it actually does anything and whether it is really essential to use it to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

Why should you use one? 

There are some specific mouthwashes that target some common dental issues like bad breath, gingivitis, decay, etc. So, it is vital to know which problem you are targeting and then decide whether it is actually necessary to buy one or not. 

Commonly dentists recommend mouthwashes that contain fluoride. It aids in the treatment of tooth decay and helps give protection to your teeth. On the other hand, bacteria that cause bad breath can be removed with antiseptic mouthwashes.

In addition to removing bacteria, antiseptic mouthwashes can help prevent germs from accumulating in the mouth before and after surgery. In order to treat dental infections, many people use antiseptic ones.

A fluoridated option can reduce cavities when properly used and prevent periodontal disease if used regularly. In addition, they create a feeling of freshness in your mouth. 

Is using mouthwash necessary in your dental routine?

Using mouthwash every time you brush and floss might not be necessary if you brush twice a day. Although most dental professionals advise using fluoride mouthwash in the morning as well as at night. 

The use of this solution provides extra rinse for your teeth and prevents your teeth from getting infected. But the usage of the same also depends on the problem you are tackling. 

Furthermore, it should be noted that mouthwash does not replace flossing and brushing. Moreover, you won’t notice a big difference if you brush twice a day for one minute followed by flossing once a day.

You are more likely to prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing your teeth instead of using mouthwash. Having said that, it is also true that a good fluoride rinse can be helpful for your oral health as it controls bacteria and strengthens teeth. 

What is the correct way to use one? 

As stated above, using mouthwashes in your oral care routine totally depends on you and you can even consult your dentist before buying one. 

If you want to use one as well, the tips mentioned below will help you understand how to use them effectively to up your oral care game:

After brushing, wait at least 30 minutes – It is common for people to clean their mouths with mouthwash instantly after brushing. However, it is not the most effective way. The reason for that is that toothpaste contains fluoride, a mineral that must remain on your teeth for some time so that it can strengthen them. 

Use it after you eat or snack- Though brushing after meals is recommended, it isn’t always feasible, therefore mouthwash can be used as an alternative. This kills bacteria and removes food particles, which prevents plaque and acids from building up.

Follow flossing with mouthwash – After you floss, you should rinse your mouth with mouthwash in order to flush away the food particles loosened by flossing. As a result, your mouth will be free of germs.

To get the full benefits, make sure you follow all instructions written on the pack. Additionally, it is also vital to remember that mouthwash alone won’t remove plaque or bacteria without the help of dental floss and good toothpaste.