What Does Mouthwash Do?

What does mouth wash do?

You instantly have fresher breath and a cleaner mouth when you use mouthwash. Mouthwash contains properties that keep your mouth clean by removing plaque, and reducing gum disease and tooth decay. Generally, mouthwash is a plus for oral health and builds tooth remineralisation.

Nobody likes to carry bad odour in their mouth throughout the day, which is why mouthwash can keep your mouth clean and fresh 24 hours a day. 

Although, questions continue to be asked as to how effective mouthwash truly is. Many myths regularly circulate when it comes to going in-depth about mouthwash. What if you suffer from dry mouth? What if you have sensitive teeth? 

Let’s break down mouthwash in greater detail below to give you a better understanding of mouthwash with a fair pros and cons review.

What Are The Pros Of Mouthwash?

It is recommended that you use mouthwash as part of a daily oral routine to keep your mouth clean and fresh. Understanding more about what mouthwash can do will also benefit you.

Here are some of the pros:

  • Eliminates Bad Mouth Odour – Consistent brushing and flossing your teeth is fundamental to a fresh mouth, but mouthwash can build on top of that to give you a freshness boost for your breath. Therefore, ensure that you collectively brush and floss and swig a bit of mouthwash in your mouth so that the bacteria built in your mouth can be left behind.
  • Protects You From Plaque and Gingivitis – Dental plaque coats your teeth fairly quickly if you don’t keep your mouth clean for a consecutive number of days. With brushing and flossing, mouthwash can help remove those stubborn food particles that are stuck in between your teeth. This can reduce the chances of gum disease as well.
  • Lessens Tooth Decay – Mouthwash contains traces of fluoride that helps to remineralise your teeth, keeping them stronger for longer. Therefore, it is a smart choice to swig some mouthwash in your mouth after you’ve brushed your teeth.
  • Clears Canker Sores – Canker Sores are generally quite frustrating, but mouthwash can help clear them up quickly.

What About The Cons Of Mouthwash?

Whilst mouthwash has some really helpful benefits. There are some cons to be aware of as well.

  • It Doesn’t Cure Dry Mouth – Your salivary glands belong at the back of your mouth, and just because you use mouthwash doesn’t mean that it can cure dry mouth. Mouthwash can reduce saliva production. 
  • Could Irritate – Certain mouthwashes have a high alcoholic content, and their properties can cause tissue irritation. If you have canker stores, this can slow the process of healing.
  • Masks Halitosis – Yes, mouthwash can help freshen your breath, but that doesn’t mean the bad odour will disappear permanently. If you suffer from a chronic bad breath condition known as halitosis, it is a sign you need to visit the dentist to get it cured. Excessive use of mouthwash has negative effects as well.

 

Is Mouthwash For Everybody?

Mouthwash benefits most people. Although, it is not for everybody. For example, young children at the age of 6 shouldn’t use mouthwash because there is a danger that they may swallow it. If you’ve certain allergies to ingredients, then mouthwash main contains traces that can cause problems later on. Mouthwash, particularly those containing alcohol, is also not recommended if you have developed mouth sores. You may consider non-alcoholic mouthwashes.

Ultimately, understanding whether you can use mouthwash depends on your oral health condition, and there is no better way to learn more about it than by visiting the dentist for a check-up.

Therefore, get yourself checked for a dental appointment with your local dentist today.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Any reliance you place on the information provided in these blogs is, therefore, strictly at your own risk. We shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of the information provided on this website.

by Dr Johnson Tang

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