Do you use mouthwash in your everyday dental health routine? Mouthwash has many benefits if it is used properly, and can improve your dental health greatly. Get your teeth feeling fresh and clean with a regular mouthwash routine!
Benefits of Mouthwash
Mouthwash is only effective when it is used with a good dental hygiene routine, it is not a replacement for brushing your teeth. However, mouthwash can help reach crevices and hard-to-reach places in your mouth that your toothbrush might not be able to reach. There are two types of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwash is used for short-term effects such as fresh breath and can be pleasant tasting. Cosmetic mouthwash has no lasting benefits, which means it doesn’t kill the bacteria associated with bad breath. Cosmetic mouthwash only removes the temporary problem of having bad breath. However, therapeutic mouthwash can help with dental discomfort and work on improving overall dental health.
Ingredients in this type of wash may include essential oils, peroxide, fluoride, chlorhexidine, and cetylpyridinium chloride. Therapeutic mouthwash can help with gingivitis, plaque, tooth decay, and bad breath. Mouthwashes such as these are available over the counter or as a prescription from your dentist.
Tips to Improve Oral Health with Mouthwash
It is simple to implement mouthwash into your oral routine. First, brush your teeth before using any mouthwash. Using the cup provided or any plastic cup pour the specified amount of oral rinse into the cup, this is normally 3-5 teaspoons. Pour the entire cup of rinse in your mouth and start swishing it around, do not swallow any of the liquid. When you are swishing the mouthwash around gargle for about 30 seconds. Finally, spit the mouthwash into the sink. Enjoy your fresh breath and clean mouth!
Your oral routine in the morning and at night is crucial for good dental hygiene. The following steps should be included every day.
- Brush – Brush your teeth twice daily, including right before you go to bed, for about 1-2 minutes per brush. Along with your teeth make sure you are brushing your tongue and gums. Brush in a circular motion, but do not push too hard, as it could harm your gums.
- Floss – Floss at least once per day to remove food build-up and prevent gum disease.
- Rinse- Use your prescribed or over-the-counter mouthwash after your brush and floss your teeth.
- Hydrate – Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Water can help flush out leftover food that may be hard to reach with your brush and is good for your overall health.
- Healthy Eating – Eat plenty of vegetables. Vegetables can act as natural floss, and be sure to stay away from sugary and acidic foods.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning with Family Dentistry of Columbus Today!
Don’t skimp on your oral routine, even mouthwash! Mouthwash has many benefits leaving your breath fresh and your teeth clean. Our team of dental professionals are here to help you feel confident about your smile.
Call on Family Dentistry of Columbus to help your teeth get on the right track.