A debate exists over whether mouthwash is beneficial or harmful to oral health. There is a concern that mouthwash kills both good and bad bacteria, making it challenging to maintain a healthy mouth microbiome.
Most dentists recommend using mouthwash, or oral rinses, as part of a daily dental care routine. They still want you to be aware of potential side effects, chemical dyers, flavors, alcohol content, and a higher risk for oral cancer. It’s also possible that some mouthwashes stain your teeth.
Here is the latest research on mouthwash benefits, downsides, and best practices for keeping your smile healthy, fresh, and clean from dentists.
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Benefits Of Using Mouthwash
Besides freshening, cooling, and tingling your mouth, mouthwash serves numerous health and hygiene benefits. Parneet Sehmi, BDS, a London-based dentist, said, “Mouthwash is beneficial for keeping your teeth clean, and it can prevent unnecessary problems with your teeth.” Since mouthwash is a liquid, it can reach your mouth’s tricky corners and crevices better than a toothbrush.
The Cons Of Using Mouthwash
There are some downsides to mouthwash, but they are not so much related to the mouthwash itself as to the habit of relying on mouthwash alone for dental care. The purpose of mouthwash is to clean the mouth while flossing, brushing, and using toothpaste.
Vinson says mouthwash alcohol content is one of the most important things to watch out for in mouthwash. Since alcohol can dry, picking an alcohol-free mouthwash is best if you notice your mouth feels dry after using a specific mouthwash.
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The Best Mouthwash For You
Dr. Sehmi says the best mouthwash to use if you want to prevent tooth decay and lower the risk of harmful bacteria in your mouth is one that contains fluoride. The use of fluoride mouthwash can help prevent dental decay. Despite their appeal, Dr. Vinson says whitening mouthwashes don’t work as well as it should. It’s best to stick with over-the-counter whitening strips if you want a whiter smile.
Bottom Line
Using mouthwash can be very beneficial for your oral hygiene and overall health. Dr. Sehmi has a straightforward answer to whether mouthwash is good or bad. Dr. Sehmi said, “Using mouthwash during regular dental care depends on the type and use.”