Should You Use Mouthwash?

You know you’re supposed to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once daily. Most people should visit the dentist every 6 months as well. Those are clearly defined guidelines. Whether or not you should use mouthwash doesn’t have the same clearly defined guidance though. So should you use it?

What Mouthwash Is Supposed to Do

Mouthwash can be used to help kill the harmful bacteria that make your mouth their home. Because it’s a liquid, it’s easier for mouthwash to get into all the little spaces in your mouth and between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t quite get to. In addition to helping prevent tooth decay by killing bacteria, it can also help fight bad breath. Of course, you only reap the benefits of using mouthwash if you use it properly.

How Mouthwash Works

Different mouthwash products have different ingredients and are formulated to work a little differently because of that. Mouthwashes that contain antiseptic ingredients such as alcohol, menthol, and eucalyptol are pretty effective at killing bacteria in your mouth. These ingredients may sting your mouth a bit, but they’re good at getting to the bacteria between your teeth and in the very back of your mouth. Other mouthwashes contain fluoride and are designed to strengthen the enamel by coating the enamel with the fluoride so it can absorb in. They work similarly to oral rinses and fluoride products you might get at the dentist, though those products contain a much higher concentration of fluoride.

How to Use Mouthwash

Before you use mouthwash, thoroughly brush and floss your teeth. If you use fluoride toothpaste, wait for a while before using mouthwash to avoid inadvertently rinsing it off with the mouthwash. Check the instructions to see how much mouthwash you should use. Measure out the designated amount and pour it into your mouth. Swish the mouthwash around without swallowing it. Gargle it for 30 seconds while rinsing to get the back of your mouth. When you’re done, spit it into the sink.

Using mouthwash twice a day after brushing and flossing your teeth can be a great way to give your teeth an added level of protection from tooth decay. Just make sure you don’t swallow it and don’t try to use it to replace good oral habits like brushing and flossing. Use it properly to enjoy the benefits it offers.



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