Think before you swish: Pros and Cons of Mouthwash
Using mouthwash has become a common practice among a
majority of people. People have made it a routine to regularly brush their
teeth, floss, and using mouthwash before they leave out. For some people,
mouthwash has been a quick fix whenever they are too tired or lazy to brush and
floss their teeth. However, many people still question the pros and cons of
mouthwash and even wonder why they use it in the first place. Here are some of
the pros and cons of mouthwash.
The Pros of
Using Mouthwash
-
Beneficial When it Comes
to Fighting Cavities
Mouthwash, especially one that contains fluoride as
one of the ingredients, comes in handy when it comes to fighting bacteria that
cause cavities. Apart from killing the bacteria, fluoride reduces
demineralization by protecting as well as strengthening the enamel.
-
Fresh Breath
One of the benefits that most people love about using
mouthwash is that it gives you a fresh breath. Fresh
breath helps people build their confidence while talking with other people.
-
Healthy Gums
Numerous studies have shown that antibacterial
mouthwash is beneficial in controlling harmful bacteria in the mouth. It helps
to keep the gums healthy and sound. If bacteria are left to sit on the surface
of the teeth for a very long time, it will start eating the enamel, especially
in the gum line. This will lead to the formation of pockets, which, if not
controlled, can result in gum disease.
-
Whitens Teeth
Although mouthwash does not contain a strong teeth
whitening agent, most people who regularly use it experience improved color on
their teeth.
-
Reaches More Areas of Your
Mouth
According to research, brushing reaches 25% of your
mouth. Regular use of mouthwash allows you to touch and clean most parts of your
mouth.
The Cons of
Using Mouthwash
-
Masks Bad Breath
Mouthwash may not be a solution to obtaining a fresh
breath, especially for people with bad oral health. A majority of people think
that mouthwash is a solution for a dental disease known as halitosis (bad
breath). However, this is not true. Mouthwash will only mask the odor for a
short period. If you have an issue with your breath, discuss the problem with
your dentist for a long term solution.
-
Increased Tooth
Sensitivity
If mouthwash is used in excess, it can cause dryness
in the mouth, which can be a potential cause for sensitivity. This sensitivity
is due to a shortage of saliva in the mouth, leaving the teeth unprotected.
Bottom Line
As we have discussed above, there is no definite
answer to whether mouthwash should be used on a daily basis or not. However,
most dentists advise that daily dental hygiene such as brushing and flossing
should not be replaced with mouthwash. Establish your daily dental hygiene
routine, which includes brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least
once. Schedule an appointment with our dentist in
Keysborough for guidance on your oral hygiene routine. At Springvale dental
clinic, we have the best technology as well as the dental team to take good
care of your dental needs.
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