We all know that brushing our teeth is important for good oral health. And we all know that we should floss to prevent diseases like gingivitis. But did you know that using mouthwash does much more than just freshen your breath and is beneficial for your mouth?
Using mouthwash is an effective way to reach the places that a toothbrush might not access, such as between teeth, the insides of checks, and the back of the throat. These areas have bacteria just like your teeth and using mouthwash helps make sure that you’re getting rid of as much harmful bacteria as possible.
There is some debate over whether it’s more effective to use mouthwash before or after brushing your teeth. Some people say that using mouthwash before brushing allows it to loosen up plaque so it’s more easily removed by brushing. Others say that mouthwash works better after brushing, because it rinses out and disinfects your mouth after the plaque and buildup has been removed by a toothbrush. Either way, mouthwash helps disinfect the mouth especially in those hard-to-get areas.
There are plenty of different mouthwashes out there, but some are geared for specific dental health issues. For instance, if your main concern is fighting bad breath or you’re looking for a treatment for gum disease, an antibacterial formula might be a good bet. However, this type of mouthwash can dry out the mouth so it’s best to limit use to every few days.
If you get cavities or don’t have fluoridated water, you’ll want a mouthwash with fluoride to help strengthen enamel and fight tooth decay. If you already have gingivitis or periodontitis, you may need a prescription mouthwash to fight those diseases.
Talk to the family dentists at Dakota Dental for more information about their preventative dental care program and how to take care of your teeth. The dentists at Dakota Dental can help patients determine which type of mouthwash would be most beneficial to them. Feel free to contact Dakota Dental with questions about your oral health or to schedule your checkup today!