Should You Use Mouthwash?

There are so many options available when you hit the oral hygiene aisle at any drug store. With so many toothbrushes, types of floss, and mouthwash to choose from, you may be wondering what exactly you should be using each day. While we sure hope you are brushing your teeth twice a day, and we encourage you to floss daily, keep reading to know whether you should be using mouthwash.

People who are highly concerned with their oral hygiene typically do not need to use mouthwash. These people are committed to flossing their teeth every day and brushing at least twice a day. With these two simple steps, their teeth should be clean and healthy between dental visits. If you fall into this category, way to go!

However, if you rarely floss, and if you occasionally miss brushing your teeth a second time some days, mouthwash will benefit your oral health. Mouthwash that has the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of approval is guaranteed to consist of the necessary ingredients that will kill harmful bacteria inside your mouth so that they do not cause decay. Millions of oral bacteria live inside everyone’s mouth, and it is these bacteria that cause cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. Flossing and brushing remove bacteria-laden plaque from the teeth, but if you are not flossing every day and brushing regularly then bacteria are having a field day in your mouth.

Mouthwash will not remove plaque from the teeth, but it will kill the bacteria inside the plaque. Therefore, mouthwash should not serve as a substitute for flossing or brushing. Yet, it was designed for those who do not choose to implement all of the steps of proper oral hygiene.

At ConfiDENT in Alpharetta, we do encourage all of our patients to floss daily and brush their teeth at least twice a day. However, we do understand that not everyone makes this choice. If you would like a recommendation for a mouthwash that will help protect your smile, call today for an appointment. We are committed to your oral health.