Man Pouring Bottle Of Mouthwash Into Cap

Mouthwash freshens your breath and can help to improve your oral health. Mouthwash helps to kill the germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis. There are many types of mouthwash, so how do you choose the right mouthwash for you?

Fluoride Mouthwash

Fluoride helps to strengthen tooth enamel, thereby preventing tooth decay. Whilst controversial, fluoride is an important inclusion in most toothpastes, and is also added to the drinking water as a preventative measure in many Australian regions. If you are more prone to cavities, using a fluoride mouthwash can help to maintain your tooth enamel and prevent cavities.

Alcohol-based Mouthwash

Alcohol-based mouthwash works as an antiseptic to rid the mouth of harmful germs.  However, it can be very strong and many people prefer to avoid alcohol-based mouthwash because of its burning, stinging sensation. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are recommended for children, teens and people experiencing or recovering from alcohol addiction.

Anti-Plaque/Anti-Gingivitis Mouthwashes

Anti-plaque or anti-gingivitis mouthwashes target advanced plaque, gingivitis and reduce inflammation of the gums. These are generally recommended or prescribed by your dentist to resolve specific oral health issues

Sensitive Teeth

Some alcohol-based mouthwashes can be irritating to sensitive teeth or following a dental procedure. If you’ve had a dental procedure or have sensitive teeth or gums, switch to an alcohol-free mouthwash and ensure you use a soft-bristle brush and toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth

Mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing, and is best used after brushing and flossing to kill any remaining bacteria.

The use of mouthwash is not recommended for children under the age of 7, as young children are more likely to accidentally swallow the mouthwash.

Remember, mouthwash is used as a prevention tool, not a cure. If you are currently experiencing a bacterial infection, make an appointment to come in and see us. We can help guide you toward a better treatment plan.