Using mouthwash is something you can do to help keep your breath fresh and keep cavities away, but is it really necessary? Brushing and flossing are the two things that are most important for good oral health, but using mouthwash can also be beneficial. Here are a couple things to understand about mouthwash products.
There are two main types
First of all, it's important to understand the differences between the two main types of mouthwash products you can buy and use. The first type is considered cosmetic mouthwash, and this is the type that is very useful for getting immediate fresh breath. If you want to quickly freshen up your breath, you can swish this type around in your mouth for around 20 seconds or so. After that, you can spit it out and rinse your mouth. This will leave your breath fresher, but it won't really help your mouth in any other way.
The other type you can use is called therapeutic mouthwash, and this type is perfect for helping you keep your teeth and gums healthier. Therapeutic mouthwash is designed to kill bacteria and reduce plaque in your mouth. Most therapeutic mouthwash products contain fluoride, and this is helpful for keeping strong enamel on your teeth. If you want to keep your teeth cavity-free, adding therapeutic mouthwash to your daily oral habits is a great supplement.
It is not designed as a substitute for brushing
A second thing to understand is that, while mouthwash can help you get fresher breath and help you prevent cavities, it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing your teeth. It should always be considered a supplemental activity that you use in addition to brushing and flossing.
You should not rinse out therapeutic mouthwash products
Finally, if you are using a daily mouthwash that contains fluoride, it is very important that you do not rinse your mouth. While you do not want to swallow the mouthwash, rinsing it out of your mouth will dilute it. If you do this, your teeth will not benefit as much from the fluoride exposure. Instead of rinsing, simply try to spit it all out after using it. In addition, do not eat or drink anything after you do this for at least 30 minutes. Using it right before bed is a good time to do this, simply because you will not have to worry about avoiding food and drinks if you choose this time of day.
If you would like to learn more about mouthwash, its benefits, and the best type to choose, contact a dentist today.
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