How to Use Mouthwash

When you care about the health of your teeth and gums, it’s important to practice good daily oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth is essential for your dental health, but learning how to use mouthwash can take your dental care to the next level.

Using Mouthwash Properly
Learning how to use mouthwash is easy. Most mouthwashes come with directions for use written on the label, so it’s a good idea to start by reading those in case there are any special directions unique to the type of mouthwash you’re using.

In general, it’s recommended that you pour a small amount of mouthwash, around 1 tablespoon, into a glass or the cap of the mouthwash container. Gently swish it in your mouth, gargling if you wish, then spit it out into the sink. Many types of mouthwash contain ingredients that are harmful if swallowed, so it’s important to be careful not to swallow it.

Uses for Mouthwash
Mouthwash can be useful to improve your dental health in many different ways. It all depends on the active ingredients in the type of mouthwash you choose.

Mouthwash with antiseptic ingredients, such as eucalyptol or menthol, can help with freshening breath and fighting cavities because the antiseptic properties work to neutralize the bacteria that can harm your teeth and make your breath smell less-than-fresh.

Other mouthwashes that are formulated with fluoride can be useful to strengthen your teeth, reduce sensitivity, and prevent cavities because fluoride works to help remineralize the enamel (the outer layer of your teeth).

Ask Your Dentist

If you’re wanting to learn more about how to use mouthwash so that you get the most benefits from it, that is a great thing to ask your dentist about. Your dentist can examine your teeth and gums and recommend the mouthwash with the right active ingredients so that it will be the best match for your dental care needs.

Call our Jacksonville Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.