by Jenny A. Kanganis, D.D.S.
Bronxville Dental Care
Have you ever walked down the oral hygiene aisle overwhelmed by all of the choices of toothpastes, toothbrushes, and floss? Add all the countless varieties of mouthwashes, and it’s enough to make your head spin! Should you be using a daily mouthwash; and if so, which one? We thought we would try to simplify things a bit so that you can make the best choice for you and for your family.
First off, should you even consider using a mouthwash if you are brushing and flossing? The answer depends on your current oral condition and healthcare needs. Almost all adults, teens, and children over the age of six can benefit from the use of a daily mouthwash as an aid to improving their oral health. Using a mouthwash however, is not a substitute for brushing or flossing; but rather, it is one more tool in your oral healthcare prevention toolbox.
Let’s start with the two general categories of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic. As the name implies, cosmetic mouthwashes are considered to be temporary solutions as they don’t contain any ingredients that will chemically or biologically control or prevent disease. For example, a cosmetic mouthwash may control bad breath for a short time by making the mouth taste and feel fresh, but it won’t actually control or kill the bacteria which cause the bad breath. Another type of cosmetic mouthwash may help to temporarily whiten stains on teeth without actually bleaching the teeth. In contrast, a therapeutic mouthwash contains active ingredients (such as alcohol, fluoride, peroxide and essential oils) which can help control oral diseases and conditions like gingivitis, halitosis, cavities and dry mouth by targeting the bacteria responsible for these harmful conditions. Most therapeutic mouthwashes can be found over-the-counter, although there are several that can be obtained by prescription only from your dentist.
If you suffer from gingivitis, then a mouthwash specifically formulated for that condition would be most appropriate. Children and adults alike who live in areas without fluoridated water, or who drink filtered water that removes the fluoride ion, and those who suffer from an increased risk of cavities due to poor nutrition or oral hygiene would benefit from using a daily fluoride rinse. If you suffer from dry mouth, then look for a mouthwash that is free from alcohol, as alcohol can further dry the mouth. In addition, dry mouth also poses an increased risk of cavities, so using one mouthwash that targets both conditions is ideal. There are even mouthwashes that help to clean and to heal mouth sores.
When looking for the appropriate mouthwash, always make sure that it has the Seal of Acceptance form the American Dental Association. This seal means that the claims on the label have been tested and are accurate, and that the ingredients are safe and effective. There are also a few all-natural brands that have earned this seal, as well. And remember, it is always best to check with your own dentist to see which mouthwash is best for you!
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