Your oral hygiene habits at home are your smile’s first line of defense against preventable issues like tooth decay and periodontal disease. While you might think your toothbrush and floss are enough, many people should also use a mouthwash that caters to their dental requirements. While you might think they are all created equally, there are several options. Your dentist can help you determine the best mouthwash for you, so you don’t have to waste time reading labels.
Believe it or not, mouthwash can do more than just give you minty fresh breath. While there are some that focus on combating bad breath, there are others that can help treat certain dental issues depending on your specific needs, such as:
If you’re prone to cavities or you have weakened enamel, you might benefit from a fluoride mouthrinse. Fluoride acts as nature’s cavity fighter. When used as a mouthwash, it coats your teeth to make them more resistant to cavity-causing bacteria. While fluoride is beneficial to your oral health, too much can cause adverse complications, so it’s important to speak with your family dentist to ensure it’s the right mouthwash for you.
Many antiseptic mouthwashes contain alcohol, which makes them ideal for treating infections or reducing bacteria growth to combat halitosis. When combined with the right oral hygiene habits, it keeps harmful bacteria at bay. If you suffer from dry mouth, you may want to avoid using it because the alcohol creates a drying effect, making the problem worse.
There are mouthwashes designed to reduce the symptoms of tooth sensitivity. They contain desensitizing agents to stop the discomfort. They also contain compounds that strengthen the enamel to prevent the pain at its source.
If your smile is losing its luster, a whitening mouthwash can slightly improve surface stains. They contain peroxide to reduce the appearance of minor stains caused by environmental factors, like coffee or smoking. If you want to achieve significant improvement, you’ll need to see your dentist for a whitening treatment.
If your mouth is constantly dry, it creates the ideal breeding ground for harmful bacteria. A daily oral rinse catering to the problem is specially formulated to keep your mouth moist. This will reduce bacteria while refreshing your mouth for a healthy smile.
If you’re not sure which mouthwash best meets your needs, ask your dentist for recommendations during your next preventive visit. They’ll suggest the ideal dental products to keep your smile healthy in between appointments.
About Dr. Benjamin Naylor
Dr. Benjamin Naylor welcomes families in and around Springfield to help them achieve optimal oral health through personalized care. Dr. Naylor not only earned his dental degree, but he also furthered his training to support his special interest in surgical dentistry. He can treat even the most complex cases, but he encourages a focus on prevention. If you need help choosing the right dental products, contact our office to speak with a member of our team for recommendations.
MON - THU 8:00 am - 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
FRI - SUN Closed
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