What Your Dentist Wants You to Know About Mouthwash
Alongside giving you minty-fresh breath, mouthwash plays an important role in your oral hygiene routine. Although it's difficult to get mouthwash wrong, failing to maximise its use could see you miss out on its health benefits. Here's what your dentist may want you to know about using mouthwash.
Finding the Right Type
Just like everyone else, you may have specific needs when it comes to choosing oral hygiene products. While some people prefer prioritising whiter teeth, others like to reduce sensitive sensations or achieve minty breath.
Although it's okay to prioritise such specifics when choosing a mouthwash, make sure you don't miss out on the key essentials. Finding a product with fluoride is crucial. Fluoride protects your teeth as they gain and lose minerals. As a result, it can help them maintain their strength. When buying your next products, make sure they contain fluoride.
Adding It Into Your Routine
Many people make the mistake of using mouthwash right after brushing their teeth. If you choose to do so, you may wash away some of the fluoride that your toothpaste contains. As a result, you could accidentally weaken your teeth.
Try using mouthwash after each meal instead. This will wash away some food particles, which reduces the risk of bad bacteria building in your mouth. Additionally, you'll add in an extra layer of fluoride without compromising what your toothpaste achieves.
Using It Correctly
Depending on the nature of the wash you use, it can cause a mild burning sensation. Although this may feel uncomfortable, you need to keep swilling it around your mouth for 30 seconds to see the full benefits. If you find that your mouthwash is too uncomfortable, try switching brands until you find something that works for you.
You should also avoid swallowing your mouthwash. Although you're unlikely to cause any significant harm, some products contain alcohol.
Reading the Instructions
Some mouthwash brands require that you dilute them before use. If this is the case, not doing so could damage the soft tissues in your mouth.
Additionally, you should always use the right measurement. Most mouthwash caps are ideal for this and should indicate how high you need to fill them before swilling. Again, using too much could cause damage to the soft tissues in your mouth. With the right brand, the right technique, and the right timings, mouthwash can bring a lot to your oral hygiene routine. Now all you need to do is find the correct product for your needs. Reach out to a dentist for more information.