As your Scarborough family dentist, our dental care centre in Scarborough always aims to provide our community with the latest up to date information about what to do to reach optimal oral health. This can range from informing you about the latest cosmetic dental treatments to learning about what you can do to maximize your homecare routines. This blog will discuss the various mouthrinses, their importance and what role they can play in your dental homecare routine.
So how do you know if mouthrinse is something that you need to incorporate in your homecare regimen? If it is, your dental hygienist or dental professional will inform you and make the necessary recommendations.
Various types of Mouthrinses
With all of the mouthrinses available in the market, choosing the right one can be confusing. It may not even be necessary but when the shelves at the stores are stocked with nice looking bottles, one can be tempted to purchase some. Here are the various mouthrinses options and why it is best that it be recommended to you by your dental professional versus you just picking one off the shelves.
Cosmetic Mouthrinses
- Purpose: Primarily used for freshening breath.
- Features: Contains flavoring agents and may temporarily mask bad breath but does not address the underlying causes of bad breath or oral health issues.
- Examples: Over-the-counter breath fresheners.
Therapeutic Mouthrinses
- Purpose: Designed to treat or prevent specific oral health issues such as plaque, gingivitis, cavities, and bad breath.
- Features: Contains active ingredients that target oral health problems.
- Subtypes:
- Antiseptic Mouthrinses: Contains agents like chlorhexidine, essential oils, or cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) to reduce bacteria in the mouth. Often used to treat gingivitis or after oral surgery.
- Fluoride Mouthrinses: Contains fluoride to help prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel.
- Plaque-Reducing Mouthrinses: Helps reduce plaque buildup and prevent gingivitis.
- Anti-Gingivitis Mouthrinses: Targets the prevention or treatment of gingivitis.
- Desensitizing Mouthrinses: Contains agents like potassium nitrate to reduce tooth sensitivity.
- Dry Mouth Moisturizing Mouthrinse: Made specifically for dry mouth which contains ingredients such as xylitol. Examples of these mouth rinses that are available are Biotene, Smart Mouth Dry Mouth, and TheraBreath Dry Mouth
Alcohol-Free Mouthrinses
- Purpose: Offers a gentler option for individuals sensitive to alcohol or for those who prefer to avoid it.
- Features: Lacks alcohol, making it less likely to cause a burning sensation. Often available in both cosmetic and therapeutic forms.
- Examples: Listerine Zero, Therabreath, Opti-Rinse
Prescription Mouthrinses
- Purpose: Used under the guidance of a dental professional for specific oral health conditions.
- Features: Often contains higher concentrations of active ingredients like chlorhexidine or other antimicrobials. Used for conditions like severe gingivitis, after oral surgery, or for other dental conditions requiring strong intervention.
- Examples: Peridex
Each type of mouthrinse is suited for different needs, so it’s essential to choose one that aligns with your specific oral health goals.
It is also important to note if the type of mouthrinse you select is backed by the Canadian Dental Association. The reason why this is important is because these particular mouthrinses have been tried and tested by the Canadian Dental Association. You should also only use mouthrinse that has been recommended by your dental professional because the recommended mouthrinse will target those areas that require special attention.
So how do you incorporate the use of mouthwash into your homecare regimen? Incorporating mouthwash into your dental routine can enhance oral hygiene, freshen breath, and provide added protection against cavities and gum disease. Here’s how you can do it effectively:
1. Choose the Right Mouthwash
2. Use Mouthwash at the Right Time
- After Brushing and Flossing: Mouthwash works best when used after brushing and flossing to reach areas where brushing may have missed.
- Before Bed: This can help protect your mouth overnight when it’s more susceptible to bacteria buildup.
3. How to Use Mouthwash Properly:
- Measure the Right Amount: Follow the instructions on the bottle, usually about 20 ml (4 teaspoons).
- Swish for 30-60 Seconds: Swish the mouthwash around your mouth, making sure it touches all areas, including gums and teeth.
- Spit It Out: Don’t swallow the mouthwash. Spit it into the sink after swishing.
4. Don’t Rinse with Water and Don’t Water Mouthwash Down
- After using mouthwash, avoid rinsing with water to allow the beneficial ingredients to stay on your teeth longer.
5. Frequency of Use
- Use mouthwash once or twice a day, depending on your oral health needs and the product instructions or as recommended by your dental professional. Overuse can cause irritation or dry mouth.
6. Consult with Your Dentist
- Some mouthwashes may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health conditions, so it’s always good to check with your dental professional first.
Incorporating mouthwash consistently, alongside brushing and flossing, can help maintain a clean and healthy mouth.
As your dental centre in Scarborough, we aim to educate you as much as possible to help you reach your optimal oral health goals. When you see us for your regular appointments whether it be for your hygiene appointment, for your white fillings, to close a gap, or for orthodontic reasons, it is imperative your homecare is up to par. We hope we have provided you information that can help you improve your oral health. If you require any further assistance, please feel free to contact us at 416-291-3117 and our Scarborough dental team will be more than happy to help you!
