Have you ever perused the dental hygiene section of a grocery or drug store only to be overwhelmed by the choices for mouthwash? There are more than a dozen over-the-counter mouthwashes to choose from and even more questions about them. “Do I really need a mouthwash if I brush and floss regularly?” “What’s the difference between Listerine and Scope?” “Can I just rinse?”
Marketing labels can be attractive, but it’s important to know the risks, benefits and types of mouthwashes available and choose the appropriate one for you and your family.
Most people do not need mouthwash if they don’t have oral problems. If you have bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth, a mouthwash can be helpful. However, severe bad breath or a chronic unpleasant taste in your mouth can be a sign of bigger issues like cavities and gum disease.
A dentist can prescribe a special mouthwash that helps prevent multiple cavities, gum disease, halitosis (chronic bad breath), and xerostomia (dry mouth). Most mouthwashes fall into two categories: antibacterial and anti-cavity. Antibacterial mouthwashes come in antiseptic and enzymatic. Antiseptic mouthwashes prevent and reduce bacteria everywhere, like the tongue, cheek and even between the teeth.
They also prevent bleeding gums and gum disease. If you are prone to cavities between your teeth or you see red on your toothbrush after you brush, then an antiseptic rinse may be for you. Enzymatic mouthwashes contain natural enzymes that fight bacteria. They also moisturize a dry mouth and protect sore mouth tissues. If you or your child are prone to cold sores or have dry mouth, an enzymatic rinse may be the one for you.
If you do not feel an antibacterial mouthwash is appropriate, then an anti-cavity mouthwash may work. Anti-cavity mouthwashes prevent cavities by blocking bacteria from producing destructive acids in your mouth. They also contain 0.05 percent sodium fluoride to strengthen weakened areas of your teeth. If you are prone to cavities in general, then an anti-cavity rinse is for you.
Other rinses like Scope, Cepacol, Lavoris and Signal temporarily mask bad breath for up to three hours and help remove food particles from your mouth. They are the most effective for halitosis. There are also some homemade rinses that can be made. Salt water aids healing from dental work as well as soothes sore mouth tissues. This can be made by adding ½ teaspoon salt to 8 ounces warm water. Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, freshens breath and neutralizes acid reflux. This can be easily made by mixing ½ teaspoon baking soda and 8 ounces water.
Knowing how to use a mouthwash is just as important as knowing what type to buy. Children under the age of six should not use mouth- wash because they generally have trouble controlling their swallowing reflex. Older children should be supervised by an adult. Make sure to take the proper amount according to your dentist or the label on the bottle. While many people gargle mouthwashes in the back of their throat, swishing forcefully with your mouth closed is the most effective way to rinse. Fluoride rinses should be swished for one minute, while all the other rinses should be used for 30 seconds. Do not swallow any mouthwash.
There are some mild side effects to mouth- washes. Routine or excessive use can cause a burning sensation in the gums, cheeks and teeth. Painful ulcers and sores can arise, so discontinue use if this occurs.
Although a mouthwash is helpful, it can never replace brushing and flossing. See your dentist to know whether or not you need a mouthwash and to see which is the most appropriate for you and your family.
