Posted on November 28, 2019
If you’re already brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, then you’re well on your way to practicing excellent oral hygiene habits.
Want to make them even better? If you do, try adding mouthwash into your daily oral hygiene routine. Convenient to use throughout the day and available in a variety of types depending on your needs, mouthwash can be effectively used for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.
Here are four of the most important reasons why you should start incorporating mouthwash into your oral health routine.
Benefit #1) Fresh Breath with Mouthwash
Most people reach for mouthwash when they want to improve the smell of their breath. Mouthwash can temporarily do this because of its ability to kill odour-causing bacteria. Mouthwash makes fresher breath easy as you can keep a bottle at your office desk, in your purse, or glovebox to use before dates, important meetings or after eating pasta loaded with garlic.
A variety of flavours is available, with most mouthwashes usually leaving behind a minty, fresh scent. Although most marketed mouthwashes contain an alcohol that can cause an initial burning sensation, other types are available that are alcohol-free.
Benefit #2) Prevention of Plaque and Particle Build-Up
Although most mouthwash is used after brushing and flossing is complete, mouthwash is a great place to start your oral hygiene routine, too. By loosening particles in your mouth, mouthwash can make brushing and flossing more effective. Being a liquid, it can reach into areas that your toothbrush and floss can’t.
Certain types of mouthwash can help prevent the build-up of plaque on your gums, in-between your teeth and on the surface of your teeth in-between brushing. It’s important to note that although mouthwash can prevent plaque build-up, effective brushing and flossing is needed to remove plaque that’s already there.
Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) is a painful ailment that affects gums and tooth sockets. Commonly caused by plaque build-up, using an antibacterial mouthwash with alcohol can act as a proactive measure. Mouthwash is strongly recommended for pregnant women who can experience early labour risks if they contract periodontal disease.
Benefit #3) Mouthwash Reduce Cavities
Cavities are one of the most significant dental concerns, and when gone undetected, can lead to root canals or extractions. One of the best ways to reduce them is with a proper oral hygiene routine that includes using mouthwash.
Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride to reduce the formation of cavities forming, strengthen tooth enamel and prevent the demineralization of teeth.
Benefit #4) Whiten Teeth
Although not as effective as a whitening treatment, mouthwash also offers the benefit of whitening teeth over time. Choosing a mouthwash with carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide as an active ingredient can provide this whitening effect.
For even better teeth whitening mouthwash, ask your dentist for information. Often, they can prescribe a better mouthwash than can be purchased over-the-counter.
Ask a Dentist in St. Catharines for More Dental Advice
Want more advice on improving your oral hygiene, avoiding tooth decay, or selecting a proper mouthwash? Contact our office today to schedule an appointment with our St. Catharines dentists.