MOUTHWASH: Do I really Need it?
Oh my, mouthwash is another product I am constantly asked about “do they really work” and “which one should I use?” Mouthwashes do not replace anything, they act in accessory with brushing and flossing. In comparison it would be similar to washing your dirty hands and just rinsing with water. It removes a small amount of dirt but you’ll still need to manually scrub your hands to fully clean your hands. A water only rinse won’t be sufficient. These rinses are topical and only affect conditions from the gum line and above. Mouthwashes do not diffuse under the gum line to kill bacteria, it’s a topical product. Although it can be placed under the gums through a waterpik, to help kill bacteria.
Just keep in mind anything with alcohol in it, as with some mouthwashes having at least 21.6%, can cause a dry mouth. Alcohol does kill bacteria but also promotes an acute dry environment. If you already suffer from a drier mouth, using mouthwashes consumed with alcohol will only cause more dryness. Some bacteria thrive in a dry environment instigating decay, bad breath, and discomfort.
With all mouthwashes follow the instructions. For best results it’s usually recommended to swish for 30-60 seconds (depending on the rinse) and do not swallow. After spitting the rinse out, some mouthwashes suggest refraining from drinking, eating or rinsing with water for 30 minutes.
There is quite an array of mouthwashes with many brands and many varieties under those brands
Antibacterial or Antiseptic
Main ingredients are Eucalyptol (antibacterial, anti-fungal), menthol (germ killing properties and prevents bacterial growth), methyl salicylate (flavoring) and thymol (antiseptic). Basically, it is meant to prevent the growth of disease-causing micro-organisms. It is used as a breath freshener and a mouth cleaner.
Common Brands: Listerine, Scope, Crest, Colgate
Dry Mouth
With the top ingredients being water and glycerin to help soothe the dryness in the mouth. This type of mouthwash works by moisturizing and lubricating the oral environment. Glycerol binds with water and moisturizes underlying tissue by retaining water in the mouth. This formulation also lubricates the mouth by creating a physical coating to help reduce friction and discomfort accompanying a dry mouth.
Common brands: Biotene, ACT, Colgate
Fluoride or Anti-Cavity
With the main ingredient being sodium fluoride, this helps lower the risk of cavities. Fluoride strengthens the outer tooth structure to make it harder for the acid to soften it and cause decay. For the most benefit with fluoride rinses, swish for a minute, spit it out and refrain from rinsing, eating, drinking for 30 minutes. For fluoride to work it has to stay on the teeth, so the longer it can stay on the teeth the more beneficial it will be.
Common brands: ACT, Listerine, Plax, Crest Pro-Health
