Maintaining a clean mouth can cut down on problems caused by germs and bacteria due to not cleaning one's mouth thoroughly. In addition to regular brushing, an antibacterial mouthwash can help to combat the growth of plaque-causing bacteria. In addition to these oral health benefits, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can increase the feeling of freshness and keep the breath fresh in between brushings. There is a multitude of different varieties of antibacterial mouthwashes available, some of which are fun flavors. Many dentists recommend that their patients supplement their daily dental hygiene routine with a mouthwash rinse both in the morning and at night. Some patients prefer to also rinse after each meal. Popular brands such as Scope and Listerine as well as most toothpaste brands such as Colgate and Crest. Read on to learn more about antibacterial mouthwash.
While there are certain whitening mouthwashes available on the market, antibacterial mouthwashes do not typically whiten the teeth. The antibacterial effects will keep the mouth cleaner thereby creating a healthier mouth which may help the teeth to look more appealing, if not whiter. If whiter teeth are desired, there are whitening mouthwashes that are also antibacterial available in many varieties.
Mouthwash, antibacterial and other, come in a multitude of flavors, some of which might be liked by children. In fact, there are products available that are formulated for kid's specific dental health needs, that aim to have a less medicinal taste. It is important that children learn the need for proper dental health from a young age.
Due to the medicinal nature of antibacterial mouthwashes, it is normal to feel a burning sensation when gargling. People with sensitive gums may find the burning overwhelming. If the intense sensation is preventing the use of mouthwash altogether, there are antibacterial mouthwashes available for sensitive gums.
Antibacterial mouthwashes fight the growth of microbes and are more effective than an antiseptic rinse. The ADA recommends an antibacterial mouthwash as the most effective way to fight against plaque and gingivitis. Antiseptic mouthwashes will help to keep the mouth clean and fresh but are not as effective in combating germs and bacteria.
Alcohol can cause dry mouth as well as a burning sensation during rinsing. A non-alcohol mouthwash is best for sufferers of sensitive mouths and gums. The germ-killing effectiveness may decrease with the alcohol-free mouthwashes and regular brushing will become more important.
No. Mouthwash, antibacterial or otherwise, is a supplement to regular brushing. It is important to brush two times per day, in the mornings and evenings, in order to ensure proper dental health. Regular visits to the dentist, typically every six months, are another key part of complete dental hygiene.
It is not necessary to use both an antibacterial mouthwash as well as a fluoride rinse every day. A fluoride rinse does not kill germs but it will protect the enamel of the teeth. Antibacterial mouthwashes and fluoride rinses provide different benefits that do not overlap. If a patient suffers from a sensitive mouth, dentists may recommend that a fluoride rinse is used as it will not cause any discomfort.
The American Dental Association recommends that children under the age of six not use any mouthwash of any type. The reason for this guideline is due to the possibility of young children swallowing the mouthwash rather than rinsing with it. Many mouthwashes can be toxic if swallowed in large amounts. Once a child turns six, it is best to work with a pediatric dentist to create a fully comprehensive dental hygiene regimen.