Mouthwash is an important part of any good oral hygiene routine. It reduces the bacteria in your mouth, helps loosen particles on your teeth, reduces plaque, and gives you fresh breath. But which mouthwash is best?
We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of four things to consider when choosing the best mouthwash for your needs.
1. The best mouthwash has plaque control ingredients.
It’s essential to remember that mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing your teeth. However, the best mouthwashes can be helpful in supplementing your oral health regimen, as they contain ingredients for reducing plaque. People often choose mouth rinse for controlling bad breath, but you also want it to help prevent plaque buildup.
Check the ingredients before buying. And if you’re really uncertain, you can always ask your dentist for their recommendations of effective brands.
2. Should your mouthwash have alcohol?
You might think that a mouth rinse variety containing alcohol is better because some people mistakenly believe the alcohol kills bacteria. The problem is that it doesn’t. And you don’t have to have to endure the “sting” to enjoy the benefits of a quality mouthwash.
Alcohol is sometimes put into the rinse as a preservative, and it can be used as a carrier agent for some ingredients like menthol. But it doesn’t kill bacteria. And it can be a problem for those with alcohol-related sensitivities, like recovering alcoholics and young children. That’s why it’s probably best to choose a mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol.
3. What if you have a sensitive mouth?
Some mouthwash ingredients may be irritating if you have sensitive gums or teeth. This is particularly a concern for anyone recovering from a dental procedure. If you have a sensitive mouth for any reason, you may want to choose a natural rinse with ingredients like aloe vera or even just warm saltwater.
4. The best mouthwash is a therapeutic mouthwash.
If you want a mouthwash that reduces your chance of getting cavities, your best bet is a therapeutic mouth rinse. Therapeutic mouthwashes contain ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride, menthol, or fluoride to help strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth.
Give us a call today!
At Aesthetic Dental Partners in San Antonio, we’re dedicated to helping you keep your smile bright. We’re always happy to provide insights about the best products to use to take care of your oral health. Give our Texas office a call today for a consultation appointment. We’ll have you smiling bright in no time!
