We’ve all been taught that it’s important to brush and floss your teeth daily. Some also incorporate mouthwash into this cycle simply because it gives their mouth and breath a fresh feeling.
When it comes to addressing your dental hygiene, mouthwash might not be necessary daily but it can be quite beneficial for your teeth and gums.
What Is Mouthwash?
Mouthwash is a liquid solution used to rinse and gargle the mouth. It typically contains a variety of ingredients, which can include antiseptics, fluoride, whitening solutions, and flavoring agents. It is designed to complement regular oral hygiene practices, rather than replace them.
One great thing about mouthwash is that it can sometimes reach areas of the mouth that may be difficult to clean effectively. Mouthwash can be an important addition to a daily oral care routine, providing additional benefits beyond brushing and flossing alone.
Why Is Mouthwash Important?
Mouthwash plays an important role in maintaining your dental health by killing bacteria that cause bad breath, reducing the presence of plaque, and lessening your chance of developing gum disease.
There are hundreds of brands of mouthwash available for purchase in stores across the United States. Not all of these brands contain antibacterial properties that protect your mouth from bacteria that can lead to disease and decay. Make sure you seek out fluoride-based mouthwashes to provide optimal protection against bad bacteria on your teeth and gums.
Oral Rinse VS Mouthwash
The terms “oral rinse” and “mouthwash” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same product. Both terms describe a liquid solution used to rinse and gargle the mouth for oral hygiene purposes. However, some oral care products may differentiate between the two terms based on their intended use or specific formulation.
For example, some oral rinses may be specifically designed for freshening breath or whitening your teeth.
Mouthwashes may have a broader range of benefits, including reducing plaque, fighting gingivitis, or delivering fluoride for tooth enamel strengthening. In essence, while the terms may vary in their usage, both oral rinses and mouthwashes serve the purpose of improving oral hygiene and promoting your overall oral health.
Schedule Your Next Dental Check-Up
In addition to your daily brushing, flossing, and mouthwash routine, you also need to schedule a dental check-up every six months. If you’re due or overdue for your next dental cleaning and examination, then come see us in Elk Grove Village at Brian Homann, DDS. Contact our practice now to set up your appointment.
