In this blog post from The Hills Dental Spa in Austin, we look at mouthwash. There are many different brands out there. Some tout their germ-killing abilities, others emphasize their fluoride content, and some claim to whiten teeth while freshening the breath. These are all great benefits, but will they help meet your oral care needs?
Many people wonder whether mouthwash should be part of their daily dental care routine. Brushing and flossing are essential, but is mouthwash a must?
As long as you follow the directions on the bottle, mouthwash may slightly benefit dental health, even if it doesn’t live up to every promise on the label. Rinsing with a mouthwash that contains fluoride can’t hurt your teeth, but allowing a bit of diluted toothpaste to stay on tooth surfaces after brushing probably has the same benefit.
People who cope with bad breath often believe that mouthwash can solve the problem. Actually, mouthwashes that contain alcohol can make it worse, because they can cause dry mouth—a condition that can contribute to bad breath. Mouthwashes without alcohol are usually more effective for freshening breath. These products are typically called fluoride rinses.
If you have chronic bad breath, however, you should have your teeth evaluated for plaque build-up. No amount of mouthwash can remedy a mouth full of plaque. If your teeth and gums are healthy and you still suffer from bad breath, it’s important to ascertain the cause. Bad breath can be an indication of a physical condition, so see your doctor soon.
Bottom line? Never substitute mouthwash for proper brushing and flossing. And if you use mouthwash, pick a brand that contains fluoride and no alcohol.
At The Hills Dental Spa in Austin, the healthy smiles of our patients is always our top priority, and our dental spa services make your appointment more enjoyable. Call to schedule your next checkup today!
Contact The Hills Dental Spa:
512-347-0044
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
6836 Bee Cave Road, Building 1 Suite 300
Austin, Texas
78746
