Everyone appreciates a person who takes care of their teeth and gums so that they may always smile brightly and have fresh breath. Using mouthwash on a regular basis can help keep your teeth and gums in good shape, complementing your regular brushing and flossing routine. Picking the best mouthwash might be difficult due to the wide variety available. The dental experts at our dental clinic have compiled this guide about mouthwash to assist you in making an informed decision.

Understanding Your Mouthwash Choices

First, it’s important to familiarise oneself with the various mouthwash options available before delving into the technicalities of making a purchase. There are four primary varieties of mouthwash available:

  • Cosmetic Mouthrinses
  • Medicinal Mouthrinses
  • All-Natural Mouthrinses
  • Prescription Mouthrinses

Cosmetic Mouthrinses

Instead of actually eliminating foul breath, cosmetic mouthwashes just cover it up. Although these products may help with bad breath in the short term, they do little to improve long-term oral health. A cosmetic mouthwash is an easy way to fix your bad breath problem.

Medicinal Mouthrinses

Bad breath, gum disease, and tartar development are the three most typical dental problems, and they may all be avoided or remedied with a proper mouth rinse. Products containing fluoride, chlorhexidine, and cetylpyridinium chloride reduce plaque and strengthen teeth by killing bacteria. Investing in a therapeutic mouthwash is the most long-term beneficial thing you can do for your teeth.

All-Natural Mouthrinses

If you’re concerned about the chemicals in commercial brands, you may wish to switch to a natural mouthwash. These products use all-natural components, such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and herbal extracts, to improve oral health and freshen breath. While artificial pharmaceutical mouthwashes may be more effective, natural mouthwashes still have their place.

Prescription Mouthrinses

Patients with severe oral disease or other problems may be prescribed a specialised mouthwash by their dentist. The active components in prescription mouthwashes are more potent, so they should only be used as recommended by a dentist.

Assessing Your Oral Health Needs

The first step in selecting an appropriate mouthwash is to evaluate your individual needs. When you deliberate, keep the following in mind:

  • Smelly Mouth
  • Plaque and Gingivitis
  • Cavities
  • Dry Mouth
  • Sensitivity

Smelly Mouth

Mouthwashes with no medicinal value may be all that’s needed if your only issue is occasional bad breath. However, if the condition persists after the use of a therapeutic mouthwash, a more serious issue with your dental hygiene may be to blame.

Plaque and Gingivitis

Mouthwashes containing antibacterial compounds such as chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, or essential oils can be used to cure and prevent tooth decay caused by plaque and gingivitis.

Cavities

To keep tooth decay at bay, use a fluoride mouthwash. In addition to preventing fluorosis, fluoride can also be used to strengthen tooth enamel.

Dry Mouth

Disease, aging, and certain medications are just a few of the many potential causes of dry mouth. In order to alleviate the discomfort associated with dry mouth, it is recommended that you switch to a specially prepared mouthwash.

Sensitivity

Use a mouthwash formulated for sensitive teeth to help alleviate the discomfort. Using a mouthwash containing potassium nitrate or potassium citrate can help alleviate dental sensitivity and pain.

Alcohol vs. Alcohol-Free Mouthwashes

 Also, think about whether or not you like using mouthwash with alcohol. There are good points and bad points to both options.

Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes

Pros:

  • Tend to be more effective at killing bacteria and reducing plaque.
  • It can provide a stronger, longer-lasting fresh breath sensation.

Cons:

  • It can cause a burning sensation in the mouth.
  • It may not be suitable for those with sensitive teeth or dry mouth.
  • Not recommended for children or individuals recovering from alcohol addiction.

Alcohol-Free Mouthwashes

Pros:

  • Milder on the mouth, making them suitable for sensitive teeth and dry mouth sufferers.
  • Safe for use by children and individuals recovering from alcohol addiction.

Cons:

  • It may not be as effective at killing bacteria and reducing plaque as alcohol-based mouthwashes.
  • Fresh breath sensation may not last as long.

It’s up to individual taste and dental hygiene routine to decide whether an alcohol-based or alcohol-free mouthwash is better.

See a Dentist Now!

You should always check with your dentist before purchasing any kind of oral health product. Before recommending a specific mouthwash, your dentist should examine your mouth to assess its current state. Don’t be shy about seeking dental care if you feel you need it.

A Few Final Thoughts

If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment, please call us at 519-578-7830.

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.