Mouthwash has become an essential in millennial's households. But do you really think you need it? Do you know the benefits and downsides in using mouthwash everyday? Read on!
Know what is in your mouthwash!
Mouthwash contains 18-26% alcohol except the non-alcoholic ones (duh!),
Chlorhexidine- antimicrobial which also inhibits plaque,
Cetylpyridinium chloride- antibacterial,
Essential oils- for flavor and fragrance,
Medicated mouthwashes contain fluoride and other antibiotics which the dentist prescribe for specific purpose.
Perks:
As we all know, mouthwash can give fresh breathe in no time. It also inhibits plaque (bacteria) build up.
Downside:
Extensive use of it can cause teeth staining due to the chlorhexidine in it.
Alcohol causes dehydration of mouth. Also it is lethal for children.
The freshness lasts only for 3-5 hours which may lead to over usage.
Past and current smokers and alcoholics must restrain themselves from using alcohol containing mouthwash regularly at any cost as it can increase the risk of oral cancer.
As far as non-smokers and non-alcoholics are concerned, studies show varying results in relation to oral cancer.
So, if your breathe is on the agreeable side, then don't run risks!
The key is to avoid extensive use of commercial mouthwash. Alcohol free preparations can be used without the risk of oral cancer.
But if you must use a mouthwash, try to consult your dentist or consider using warm salt water as an alternative.
But what do to when you have bad breathe?
Bad breathe can be due to various reasons. Refer our previous post to know more. Getting the root cause treated would be the best thing to do.
Your dentist will prescribe a medicated preparation for you which is to be used for a particular period of time.
Warm salt water preparation:
Dissolving half a tablespoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water can do wonders.
It is easy to make, inexpensive, safe for children over 6 years. You can also use it to gargle.
But swallowing it can cause dehydration. People who are in salt-restricted diet (hypertensive, kidney disease patients) should avoid salt water rinse.
Use of salt water mouth rinse should be kept to a minimum of 3-4 times a week. And don't forget to rinse your mouth with fresh water after doing salt water rinse.
Mouthwash contains 18-26% alcohol except the non-alcoholic ones (duh!),
Chlorhexidine- antimicrobial which also inhibits plaque,
Cetylpyridinium chloride- antibacterial,
Essential oils- for flavor and fragrance,
Medicated mouthwashes contain fluoride and other antibiotics which the dentist prescribe for specific purpose.
Perks:
As we all know, mouthwash can give fresh breathe in no time. It also inhibits plaque (bacteria) build up.
Downside:
Alcohol causes dehydration of mouth. Also it is lethal for children.
The freshness lasts only for 3-5 hours which may lead to over usage.
Past and current smokers and alcoholics must restrain themselves from using alcohol containing mouthwash regularly at any cost as it can increase the risk of oral cancer.
As far as non-smokers and non-alcoholics are concerned, studies show varying results in relation to oral cancer.
So, if your breathe is on the agreeable side, then don't run risks!
The key is to avoid extensive use of commercial mouthwash. Alcohol free preparations can be used without the risk of oral cancer.
But if you must use a mouthwash, try to consult your dentist or consider using warm salt water as an alternative.
But what do to when you have bad breathe?
Bad breathe can be due to various reasons. Refer our previous post to know more. Getting the root cause treated would be the best thing to do.
Your dentist will prescribe a medicated preparation for you which is to be used for a particular period of time.
Warm salt water preparation:
Dissolving half a tablespoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water can do wonders.
It is easy to make, inexpensive, safe for children over 6 years. You can also use it to gargle.
But swallowing it can cause dehydration. People who are in salt-restricted diet (hypertensive, kidney disease patients) should avoid salt water rinse.
Use of salt water mouth rinse should be kept to a minimum of 3-4 times a week. And don't forget to rinse your mouth with fresh water after doing salt water rinse.
Understand and get to know about your general oral health and safety. Nothing you wear is more important than your smile. Wear your smile with pride!
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