Mouthrinse, or mouthwash, is a liquid that you swish with after brushing and flossing your teeth. Studies have shown that using mouthrinse in addition to daily brushing and flossing can come with many benefits including:
- Reducing of bad breath
- Less plaque build up
- Extra protection against gum disease and tooth decay
Which One to Choose
With so many mouthrinses on the market, how can you choose the right one for your needs? They are available in prescription strength and over the counter (OTC). Just remember that OTC mouthrinses are more cosmetic in nature. This means that they are effective in battling bad breath but not as effective as prescription based washes for combating gum disease and tooth decay. If you are prone to these more serious issues, talk to your Auburn dentist to find out if prescription mouthrinse is best for you.
Therapeutic Mouthrinse
Certain mouthrinses are designed to work with specific dental issues. These are called therapeutic mouthrinses and typically fall into two categories: anti-bacterial and anti-cariogenic.
Anti-bacterial rinses are formulated to control plaque buildup. Plaque is the sticky residue that builds up on teeth and produces harmful, acid-producing bacteria. When combined with daily brushing and flossing, anti-bacterial rinses can help to combat plaque before it has a chance to adhere to your teeth. Some anti-bacterial rinses also contain antibiotics such as triclosan. We do not recommend mouthrinses containing antibiotics as overuse of these can lead to “super bacteria” which is difficult to control.
Anti-cariogenic mouthwash is designed to aid in preventing tooth decay, also known as dental caries (cavities). It uses fluoride to help strengthen your tooth enamel thereby protecting your teeth against decay. In some instances, it has been known to help reverse cavities when they are in their early formative stages.
Is Mouthrinse For You?
If you have a higher risk for gum disease or tooth decay, or if you simply have challenges with daily brushing and flossing, then mouthrinse may be for you. Ask your Auburn dentist, Dr. Matson, at your next dental exam and he will be happy to make a recommendation customized for your needs.