Brushing and flossing are talked about frequently, but how important is mouthwash in your oral hygiene routine? Do you know? According to the American Dental Association, patients use mouthwash for a variety of reasons. Learn about the reasons mouthwash can be an essential part of your oral hygiene routine and whether or not you need to use it.

How Do I Know If I Need Mouthwash?

About 31 percent of American adults use mouthwash, but many more probably should and don’t.  So, how do you know if you need to use it?  Talk to your dentist.  The only way to really know if you need it, what kind you need, and how often you should use it is from a comprehensive dental exam. The American Dental Association supports the use of mouthwash for certain cases but underscores the importance of not letting mouthwashes replace the regular use of brushing and flossing.  Mouthwash has the great ability of reaching in between spaces in the mouth that toothbrushes or floss can’t reach or may have missed.  Using mouthwash following a regular brushing and flossing routine can help safeguard your teeth health.  Always consult with Dr. Bockrath to find out the frequency you should use mouthwash and what kind would work for you.  Some mouthwashes have a high alcohol content and can damage your teeth enamel if not used appropriately or if used with too much frequency.

What Kinds of Mouthwashes Are There?

There are two categories of mouthwashes: cosmetic and therapeutic. Understanding the different roles these mouthwashes play can help you know which you could benefit from. A member of our Mountain Aire Dentistry team can also help you decide which mouthwash would be the most effective for your needs.

Cosmetic Mouthwashes

Most people will turn to a cosmetic mouthwash to help combat bad breath or to refresh their mouth.  Cosmetic mouthwashes can help your breath–temporarily–smell better, and help your mouth feel fresher, but they aren’t actually working to eliminate the real cause of your bad breath. They don’t work to kill bacteria that causes bad breath or fight off plaque, cavities or gingivitis.  At times, all you will need is a cosmetic mouthwash to meet your needs, but at other times you may benefit from the bacteria-fighting abilities of a therapeutic mouthwash.  

Therapeutic Mouthwashes

Therapeutic mouthwashes are available over-the-counter or can be prescribed by your dentist to help you prevent cavities, plaque accumulation, dry mouth and gingivitis.  Therapeutic mouthwashes are often used by patients that can’t brush normally because of physical limitations or medical reasons. Other therapeutic mouthwashes can reduce oral pain.  Therapeutic mouthwashes are especially helpful for those suffering from periodontal disease or patients that are faced with canker sores, dry mouth, immune deficiencies or are using dental braces.

Why Should I Look for ADA Approved Mouthwashes

When it comes to your body and well-being, it is important to ensure that you are using a product that is safe for your teeth and your health.  Products that don’t have the ADA seal are not guaranteed for effectiveness or safety–not all ingredients are good for your teeth and body.  When you use a mouthwash that is ADA approved, you can have the peace of mind that the product has been evaluated by an independent body of scientific experts and the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs. The ADA Seal is found on the product label of your mouthwash.  The ADA provides a list of ADA-approved mouthwashes for you to refer to.

Call for an Appointment Today!

Go back to school with confidence and schedule your dental treatment today! Contact Mountain Aire Dentistry today at (303) 731-7755 for a brighter, whiter, healthier smile. During your visit, we will answer any questions you may have and provide expert recommendations on how you can reach all of your smile goals.  Dr. Bockrath is highly skilled and trained to provide a variety of dental services. Our office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure you receive the best possible care.  We believe that everyone deserves to experience the life-altering benefits of a radiant, healthy smile.  Dr. Bockrath is a family dentist in Broomfield, Colorado, with convenient access to the communities of Thornton, Broomfield, Northglenn and Westminster.