Mouthwash and Your Dental Hygiene Routine

Brushing and flossing is talked about a lot as necessary habits to keep your teeth clean, healthy and bright, but you may have wondered if there’s anything more that you can do to achieve better results. Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits of adding mouthwash to your dental hygiene routine.

What is Mouthwash?

Mouthwash is a special solution that is used to rinse the mouth to help clean it of food debris and bacteria. It’s typically formulated with active ingredients to help fight bacteria or strengthen your teeth such as menthol, eucalyptol, cetylpyridinium chloride, naturally derived essential oils, peroxide or fluoride. Some have alcohol and some are alcohol-free to make them gentler.

Should I Use Mouthwash?

How do you know if you should be adding mouthwash to your dental hygiene routine? The best thing you can do to find out is to ask your dentist. Tell your dentist what your typical daily routine looks like and any dental-related issues you’re hoping to fix or goals you might have such as fresher breath or reduced sensitivity.

How Do I Use Mouthwash?

Adding mouthwash to your dental hygiene routine is simple and easy. To use mouthwash, brush your teeth first. Then check the label on the mouthwash container to find out how much mouthwash you should use, typically between 1 and 2 tablespoons. The label should also tell you how long you should swish it in your mouth for, usually about 30 seconds. After use, spit the mouthwash into the sink, taking care not to swallow any.

Mouthwash should be used daily in addition to your regular brushing and flossing routine. It can also be used in a pinch, after a lunch on the go if there is no fresh water available to brush your teeth, for example, to help wash away food debris or freshen your breath, but it should not regularly replace your normal oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing.

Talk with Your Dentist About Mouthwash

If you’re interested in adding mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine, it can be helpful to talk with your dentist to assist you in choosing the mouthwash with the best ingredients to get the results you desire. Your dentist can also prescribe special mouthwashes, if needed, for specific 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.