Mouth wash rinses are often found in the medicine cabinet of most American households. There are various types to choose from, including cosmetic, antiseptic, and fluoride rinses.
–Cosmetic rinses mainly help you control bad breath. They come in minty flavors to freshen your breath.
–Antiseptic versions kill germs that can cause plaque. These contain chlorhexidine gluconate.
–Fluoride rinses protect against tooth decay. They contain sodium fluoride to help the teeth stay strong.
When you are choosing a mouthwash, look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. This seal means the mouthwash has been researched and tested for its safety and effectiveness.
You may notice that some mouthwash brands claim that they are so good at killing plaque-causing germs that they can serve as an alternative to flossing your teeth. While antiseptic mouthwash washes away food particles found between the teeth and gums, it cannot compete with dental floss when it comes to physically removing all the tiny bits that can get stuck around the teeth and gums and the gum line. And to prevent plaque which can harden into tartar, you will want to keep the gums and gum line residue-free.
Physically rubbing dental floss between your teeth and gums is the only way to ensure the removal of food particles and bacterial debris. Following up with a mouthwash after brushing and flossing can help your daily oral regimen, but by itself mouthwash can’t replace your dental floss anymore than it can replace your toothbrush!
To keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay, keep brushing and flossing those pearly whites and seeing your dentist every six months to remove any plaque that has hardened into tartar. Together we will keep your smile its healthiest and brightest. You can reach us at 334-745-6393 if you have any questions or concerns about your oral health.