What You Need to Know About Mouthwash

Stand in the oral care aisle of any supermarket or drugstore, and you’ll behold a wide and bewildering array of mouthwashes. If you’ve been using the same brand for years, you may not be bewildered – you’ll reach for your old favorite out of habit. But how do you know it’s the best type for your specific needs? And if you’re just beginning to add mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine, how do you make an informed choice?

Basing your decision on TV commercials isn’t helpful. Not that such ads exaggerate claims, but 30-to-60-second spots don’t have enough time to cover all of the relevant facts. Fortunately, we do, so keep reading to learn what you need to know about mouthwash!

How Does Mouthwash Work?

Mouthwash – also known as mouth rinse or oral rinse – gets in between teeth, reaching areas that a toothbrush can’t, which helps reduce the risk of cavities and periodontal (gum) disease. Although fresh breath is the benefit most heavily promoted in advertising, it provides advantages that go beyond making one more socially acceptable. According to Mouth Healthy - an oral health information website presented by the American Dental Association (ADA) - mouthwash can provide the following benefits when used on a regular basis:

However, be aware that not even the best mouthwash is a substitute for brushing your teeth – preferably followed by flossing. The friction and motion of brushing and flossing are what help to remove bacteria, plaque, food debris and acid from the surface of your teeth. Mouthwash is most effective as a reinforcement. Our blog post – “Is Mouthwash Necessary?” – covers this topic in detail.

Moreover, the ADA does not recommend mouthwash for children younger than six years of age. They may accidentally swallow large amounts of the mouthwash, which can cause nausea, vomiting and intoxication (due to the alcohol content in some products). Check the label and follow specific precautions, instructions and age recommendations.

Choosing a Mouthwash Based on Your Needs

There are two main types of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily freshen breath and tend to have a more pleasant flavor, but do not contain active ingredients that combat plaque, tooth decay and periodontal disease.

As the name implies, therapeutic mouthwashes contain ingredients that can help reduce plaque, and work to prevent gingivitis and cavities. Some therapeutic mouthwashes can include antimicrobial and anti-tartar ingredients. Common ingredients in a therapeutic mouthwash include the following:

If you want to fight off bacteria, look for words on the label like antiplaque, antigingivitis, antibacterial or antimicrobial. Also check for the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This shows that a company has provided data demonstrating that a product is safe and effective for the purpose claimed.

To find the right kind of mouthwash for your specific concern, we’ve compiled the following list:

Periodontal disease – As mentioned earlier, using a therapeutic mouthwash needs to be part of an oral hygiene routine that consists of regular brushing, flossing, and twice-yearly dental examinations and cleanings in order to help prevent periodontal disease. Choose a mouthwash that has antiplaque, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and/or anti-gingivitis ingredients listed on the label. If you’re at risk for or have gingivitis, your dentist may prescribe a mouthwash with chlorhexidine to kill bacteria while reducing gum inflammation and bleeding. Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine are available by prescription only.

Tooth sensitivity – According to Colgate, mouthwashes for sensitive teeth desensitize teeth in two major ways: by applying solutions that anesthetize the delicate tubules in the underlying dentin area of the teeth, and by coating your tooth enamel with materials that reinforce it and make it stronger. These strengthening compounds also fill in these microscopic tubules that lead into the inner tooth pulp through the dentin that lies below tooth enamel.

Look for a mouthwash that lists potassium citrate, potassium nitrate, calcium phosphate, stannous fluoride and/or sodium fluoride in the active ingredients. Potassium citrate and potassium nitrate anesthetize the dentin and nerves within the teeth. Calcium phosphate, sodium fluoride and stannous fluoride strengthen the teeth, preventing irritants from reaching the dentin.

Results don't occur overnight. It takes regular use to build up the anesthetizing effect and strengthen the tooth enamel.

Dry mouth – Also known as xerostomia, dry mouth is a condition in which the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. As Delta Dental notes, “Saliva moistens the mouth for comfort, lubricates as you chew and swallow, and neutralizes harmful acids. It also kills germs and prevents bad breath, defends against tooth decay and gum disease, protects enamel, and speeds up wound healing.”

If you have dry mouth, look for an alcohol-free mouthwash, as alcohol will exacerbate the symptoms. Most major brands have an alcohol-free option, which provides the same benefits as standard mouthwash products. Because many mouthwashes contain a high percentage of alcohol, those who are in alcohol recovery also should use an alcohol-free mouthwash to decrease the risk of a relapse.

Bad breath – For those who simply want to keep bad breath at bay, a cosmetic mouthwash should suffice. Of course, any therapeutic mouthwash will also do the job – in addition to its other benefits. Although most people use the terms “bad breath” and “halitosis” interchangeably, bad breath results from what you eat, or during sleep – when the saliva production that helps wash your teeth free of odor-causing bacteria decreases.

As Mouth Healthy explains, “Unlike ‘morning breath’ or a strong smell that lingers after a tuna sandwich, halitosis remains for an extended amount of time and may be a sign of something more serious.” Halitosis often is a symptom of an underlying general health issue, or an oral health issue, such as periodontal disease. If bad breath persists even after switching to a therapeutic mouthwash, schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine the cause. Our blog post - “What is Halitosis? Getting to the Bottom of Bad Breath” - covers this condition in greater detail.

As we mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, you may have been using your favorite mouthwash brand and formulation for many years. However, the ingredients that worked well when you were in your 20s may not be as effective now – or you may need additional protection. This is especially true if your go-to brand is a cosmetic mouthwash. The more birthdays we celebrate, the greater our risk of developing periodontal disease and tooth decay increases. Talk to your dentist about your mouthwash to see if it still serves your oral care needs.

When to Use Mouthwash to Achieve Optimum Benefits

When should you use mouthwash to ensure optimum effectiveness? As Colgate notes, “This is a good question, and it doesn't have a simple answer. The scientific research is limited, and reputable organizations offer different recommendations.”

The Mayo Clinic recommends using mouthwash after brushing and flossing your teeth. However, the National Health Service (NHS) recommends avoiding mouthwash right after brushing, since this may wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Instead, the NHS recommends using mouthwash at a different time of day. However, there are mouthwashes that contain fluoride, so the wait may not be necessary. Also, a wait isn’t practical for many people - who use mouthwash in the morning while rushing to get ready for work or a busy day of errands, or just before bedtime.

The ADA states that you can use mouthwash before or after brushing, based on personal preference. That said, mouthwash manufacturers may recommend an order based on the product's ingredients, so check the label on your product to be sure that you maximize its effects.

Vivid Smiles of Terre Haute, IN, recommends using mouthwash at lunch or after other meals and snacks when brushing isn’t possible. A quick rinse with mouthwash will help kill bacteria and remove food particles, preventing plaque and acid buildup in your mouth. Keep a small bottle at your office desk or workstation.

The Take-Home Message

Mouthwash can be a valuable part of your oral hygiene routine, as it plays an important role in reducing the bacteria that’s the source of most oral health issues. Knowing the type of mouthwash that is best suited for your specific needs will help you make the right choice. Should you still have questions, your partner in oral health – your dentist – can recommend a product with the appropriate ingredients.

At NK Family Dental, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and periodontal services. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information.

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!

Is Mouthwash Necessary?

A clean taste in your mouth, fresh breath and an extra defense against the bacteria that cause plaque buildup and gum disease are among the main benefits that mouthwash delivers. But is it really a necessary part of your daily oral hygiene routine, or do you just believe it is thanks to successful marketing by the major brands? The cut-to-the-chase answer is yes - mouthwash does have a place in promoting oral health! However, its role isn’t as straightforward as you may think. There’s actually a good deal to learn about mouthwash, so keep reading!

What Mouthwash Really Does

Mouthwash - also called mouth rinse or oral rinse - reaches areas of your mouth that a toothbrush alone can’t. According to Mouth Healthy - an oral health information website presented by the American Dental Association (ADA) - it can provide the following benefits when used on a regular basis:

What mouthwash can’t do is replace brushing. The friction and motion of brushing and flossing are what help to remove bacteria, plaque, food debris and acid from the surface of your teeth. Mouthwash is most effective as a reinforcement when incorporated into your morning and evening oral care routine.

What Type of Mouthwash is Right for You?

Faced with a wide array of mouthwash brands and specialized formulas on the shelves of the supermarket or drugstore, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. How do you choose, and how do you know if you’re making the right choice? Breaking it down step-by-step can help lead you to an informed decision.

First, there are two main categories of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily control or reduce bad breath and leave your mouth with a pleasant taste, but don’t reduce your risk of cavities or gum disease. Therapeutic mouthwashes have active ingredients that kill bacteria and can help reduce plaque, gingivitis, cavities and bad breath. Those that contain fluoride help prevent or reduce tooth decay. Some therapeutic mouthwashes require a prescription, but many are available over-the-counter. When selecting an over-the-counter mouthwash, look for products that carry the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, which means that they have been tested and shown to be safe and effective.

Beyond these basic categories are a variety of formulations to address specific issues, such as gum disease, cavity prevention, tartar prevention, tooth sensitivity and whitening. While the oral health benefits of each formulation is clearly stated on the label, reading the list of ingredients will also help you identify what the mouthwash is intended to do. Look for the following:

A note for those in alcohol recovery: Numerous brands of mouthwash contain a high percentage of alcohol, increasing the risk of a relapse if used. Most major brands have an alcohol-free option available, which provides the same benefits as standard mouthwash products.

Mouthwash Still Stops Bad Breath, Right?

For most people, eliminating bad breath is the main reason for using mouthwash. Much as using deodorant, it’s considered essential to good general hygiene. In fact, did you know that mouthwash can be used as an emergency deodorant? Needless to say, the reverse doesn’t hold true! But mouthwash isn’t effective against halitosis - the clinical term for chronic bad breath. As Mouth Healthy explains, “Unlike ‘morning breath’ or a strong smell that lingers after a tuna sandwich, halitosis remains for an extended amount of time and may be a sign of something more serious.” Our blog post - “What is Halitosis? Getting to the Bottom of Bad Breath” - covers this condition in greater detail.

Halitosis can have one of the following causes:

If your bad breath persists despite regular use of mouthwash, schedule an appointment with your dentist to check for an underlying cause. Should a dental examination be inconclusive, schedule an appointment with your doctor. The sooner a medical condition is diagnosed, the sooner you’ll receive appropriate treatment.

When and How to Use Mouthwash

While this may seem straightforward, there is some debate as to when you should use mouthwash during your morning and evening brushing routine. Some sources recommend waiting 30 minutes after brushing to rinse with mouthwash so as not to wash away the fluoride in the toothpaste. Our blog post - “What to Look For In a Toothpaste” - covers fluoride toothpastes in greater detail. However, there are mouthwashes that contain fluoride, so the wait may not be necessary. Also, a half-hour wait isn’t practical for many people - either in the morning while rushing to get ready for work or a busy day of errands, or before bedtime.

Mayo Clinic recommends using mouthwash after brushing and flossing your teeth. On the other hand, the ADA states that it’s a matter of personal preference whether you rinse with mouthwash before or after brushing - while acknowledging that you should follow label instructions, which may have a specific order for use, depending upon the product’s ingredients.

Vivid Smiles of Terre Haute, IN, recommends using mouthwash at lunch or after other meals and snacks when brushing isn’t possible. A quick rinse with mouthwash will help kill bacteria and remove food particles, preventing plaque and acid buildup in your mouth. Keep a small bottle at your office desk or workstation.

Whether at home or work, pour about four teaspoons of mouthwash into a cup. Do not dilute with water. Empty the cup into your mouth, and swish for a full 30 seconds. Finish by gargling, then spit out in the sink.

Mouthwash is not recommended for children younger than six years of age. They may accidentally swallow large amounts of the mouthwash, which can cause nausea, vomiting and intoxication (due to the alcohol content in some rinses). Check the label and follow specific precautions, instructions and age recommendations.

So is Mouthwash Really Necessary?

There are dentists who say that mouthwash is not strictly necessary if you brush your teeth well twice a day and floss daily. However, most dentists highly recommend adding mouthwash to your morning and evening routine. As mouthwash does play an important role in reducing the bacteria that’s the source of most oral health issues, it should be part of your life!

To be sure you select the mouthwash formula that best addresses your oral health needs and goals, ask your dentist! As your trusted partner in oral health, your dentist will know if you can benefit from a mouthwash formulated to fight plaque, help prevent cavities or be gentle to sensitive teeth.

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based upon your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information.

At NK Family Dental, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and periodontal services. Our practice is trusted for advanced oral surgery procedures and comfortable root canal treatment.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!