How to Choose the Best Mouthwash for Your Teeth

Brushing your teeth and flossing is not enough. Besides removing plaque, you also need to eliminate bacteria that can infect your gums. This is where mouthwash comes in. Mouthwash can prevent plaque build-up and will remove bacterial presence in the mouth.

However, not all mouthwash formulas are the same or use the same ingredients. Choose the best mouthwash for your teeth and gums by considering the following:

Types of Mouthwash and Their Purpose

Different mouthwash products are created for different purposes, whether used for aesthetic or more practical reasons like warding off tooth sensitivity.

• Natural or Mild

  

  A common chemical used for killing germs and bacteria is alcohol. Mouthwash products typically come with this ingredient. However, not all people can tolerate the feel of alcohol in their mouths or tongue. For this reason, some mouthwashes are made without the use of alcohol. Instead, these are formulated with natural ingredients that can be used to create DIY mouthwash.

Common Ingredients Used for DIY Mouthwash Formulas:

• Aloe vera extract
• Apple cider vinegar
• Clove oil with cinnamon
• Coconut oil
• Baking soda
• Mint with parsley
• Tea tree oil with peppermint
• Seasalt

 

• Cosmetic
  

  

  By the name itself, this type does not have the primary function of a mouthwash. Cosmetic mouthwashes do fight off bacteria. They are created mainly to only help dislodge food particles (like any liquid) and freshen breath. As the name suggests, its use is purely cosmetic.This type is commonly used in social gatherings. It freshens breath immediately and leaves a cool sensation in the mouth, giving you the confidence to smile and converse with others, like at work or a party.

• Antiseptic Mixture
  
  

• • Mouthwash With Chlorhexidine
    Due to its antiseptic properties, this formula is effective in getting rid of bacteria. It can help people with halitosis (chronic bad breath). It is also a useful mixture for mouth sores. The most effective formula under this category is a mouthwash with chlorhexidine gluconate.However, this particular mixture is not recommended for prolonged use since it can discolour the teeth. This is also not sold over the counter and requires a prescription. If you are required to use it constantly, you need regular appointments to the dentist to remedy the discolouration.Factors to Consider When Using a Chlorhexidine Mouthwash

• • It is not approved for use by people below 18 years of age.
  • Talk to your dentist by the sixth month to determine if the mixture is working for you.
  • It is not advisable for pregnant or lactating mothers since there has been no research verifying its safety.
  • It can treat gingivitis but not periodontitis and may even worsen the latter, in some cases.
  • You cannot rinse or drink water, brush your teeth, or eat right after use.
  • You should not swallow it.
  • You should rinse your mouth with water within 30 seconds of use.
  • It can cause allergic reactions.

• • Mouthwash With Hydrogen Peroxide
    Another known antiseptic mixture is the mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is a popular mixture for treating or cleaning minor wounds. It can soothe sore throats. Unlike the previous mixture, this formula can whiten teeth. However, there are still some risks and precautions when using this mixture.Factors to Consider When Using a Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash
  • Avoid ingesting the mixture.
  • Never inhale the fumes when mixing.
  • When you gargle, especially when you tilt your head back, make sure that it does not splash into your eyes because it can cause irritation. It would be better if you close your eyes when you gargle or when spitting it out.
  • Do not rinse or gargle this mixture for more than 90 seconds. If you vomit or feel dizzy, you must contact your doctor right away.
• Fluoride Mixture
  A mouthwash with fluoride is formulated to fight against tooth decay and improve enamel health. This is why most toothpaste products today have fluoride. When it strengthens the enamel, it can boost your teeth’s resistance to acidity caused by the consumption of sugary food or beverages.However, too much fluoride is also harmful to the body. It can cause or even worsen thyroid problems or lead to brittle bones. Do not ingest substances with fluoride, not even toothpaste. For it to coat the teeth effectively, you should not eat, drink, or rinse at least 30 minutes after brushing your teeth or using your mouthwash.

Choosing the Best Mouthwash

Your choice of mouthwash should depend on your dental health needs. Use the appropriate variety for the following conditions:

• Halitosis (Chronic Bad Breath)

  

  A cosmetic mixture cannot solve this condition but can only temporarily mask the bad odour. The best mixture for this condition is an antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash. However, you must consult your dentist to find the root cause of the problem.

• Gum Disease
  For gum disease prevention you can pick an antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash. However, if you are already suffering from gum disease your dentist will usually prescribe a formula with chlorhexidine as it is much stronger and effective.

• Sensitive Teeth
  Having sensitive teeth is a challenge. Fortunately, a mouthwash with fluoride can help alleviate tooth sensitivity since it is formulated to strengthen your teeth. However, to reduce the sensitivity of your teeth, your mouthwash should also contain other ingredients like potassium nitrate and potassium citrate.

• Sweet Tooth
  

  Constantly eating or drinking sweets can subject the teeth to acidity, which weakens the outer layer of the teeth. Augment the exposed layer with a fresh coating of fluoride mixture.

• Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)
  Avoid the mixtures with alcohol since alcohol can reduce moisture with its quick-drying property. Pick the natural mixtures with moisture-enhancing properties but do not forget to get checked for the cause of your dry mouth.

If you are looking to prevent bacterial build-up, choose an antiseptic or natural mouthwash. However, if you have oral problems, consult your dentist first so they can assess your condition and treat it more effectively.

The purpose of using mouthwash is to augment your oral hygiene routine. Using a mouthwash is not a replacement for proper brushing, flossing, or regular dental cleaning. Even if you rinse or gargle with mouthwash before or after a meal, brushing your teeth is still the most important step.

For other mouthwash recommendations and dental concerns, our friendly and accommodating dental professionals here at Springdale Dental Centre are ready to assist you. We provide family dentist and general dentistry services for you and your family. We also offer cosmetic dentistry to further improve your teeth and especially your smile. Call us now at (905) 458-1212 or email us at in**@sp**************.com to book an appointment.