Are you one of those people who want to get their oral hygiene routine over in less than a minute? Maybe you think using mouthwash is enough to clean the bacteria after a quick brush and no flossing.
No matter how attractive the bed looks at night or how late you’re getting for work, skimping on your oral hygiene routine may prove detrimental to your oral health in the long run. If you’re looking for more information on how often you should use mouthwash or oral hygiene guidance to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy, our guide covers it all and more. Find the answers to all your mouthwash-related questions with essential oral care tips to maintain a healthy and lasting smile.
Benefits of Using Mouthwash
Using mouthwash can help support your oral hygiene routine, providing additional protection for preventing oral problems and maintaining oral health. Here are some benefits of using mouthwash:
Reduces Bad Breath
Mouthwash helps eliminate bad breath by reducing bacteria, leaving your mouth clean and refreshed.
Prevents Cavities
Mouthwashes containing fluoride can help strengthen tooth enamel and protect against tooth decay. Fluoride aids in the remineralisation process, repairing weak spots on the teeth and preventing the formation of cavities.
Promotes Healthy Gums
Certain mouthwashes contain antibacterial ingredients that help kill bacteria and reduce plaque formation. Regular use of mouthwash can help prevent gingivitis (early gum disease) and reduce the risk of gum inflammation and bleeding.
Enhances Oral Hygiene Routine
Using mouthwash in your oral hygiene routine complements brushing and flossing. It reaches areas that brushing and flossing may miss, such as the back of the tongue or between teeth, providing a more thorough clean.
Helps After Dental Treatments
Mouthwash can be particularly beneficial after dental procedures, such as extractions or oral surgeries. It can help reduce the risk of infection and promote healing in the treated areas.
How Often Should You Use Mouthwash for Optimal Oral Care?
Determining the optimal frequency of mouthwash use depends on several factors, including individual oral health needs, oral hygiene habits, and the specific type of mouthwash being used. Ideally, twice a day after brushing your teeth is recommended for your daily oral care routine. Please note that children under six should not use mouthwash because they can accidentally swallow it.
Here are some general guidelines to consider when using mouthwash:
Follow Product Instructions
Start by carefully reading the instructions provided on the mouthwash label. Different mouthwashes may have specific recommendations regarding frequency and duration of use. This depends on the type of mouthwash you are using. For example, antibacterial mouthwash helps kill bacteria, a mouth freshening one reduces bad breath, and fluoride mouthwash strengthens teeth. Cosmetic mouthwashes to freshen your mouth can generally be used more than twice a day, but it’s advisable to read the label and use it accordingly.
Consult Your Dentist
Consult your dentist or hygienist for personalised recommendations based on your oral health requirements. They can evaluate your specific needs and guide the ideal frequency of mouthwash use and appropriate oral care tools, such as an interdental brush to clean between teeth.
Balance with Other Oral Care Practices
A mouthwash cannot replace brushing and flossing daily. It should be used to complement your oral hygiene routine for improved oral health.
Monitor Your Oral Health
Pay attention to how your mouth and gums respond to mouthwash use. If you experience any adverse effects, such as increased sensitivity, dryness, or irritation, it may be a sign to reduce the frequency or switch to a different type of mouthwash.
Ways to Optimise Oral Care in Addition to Mouthwash
Using mouthwash is only a stepping stone in moving towards healthier teeth and gums. Its use must be combined with other oral care practices for a well-rounded, complete oral care routine. Some of the ways you can optimise your oral care in addition to using a mouthwash include:
Brush your teeth twice daily
It’s recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, every morning and night and floss at least once daily. This helps remove plaque, food particles, and bacteria from the surfaces of your teeth, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Gently brush your teeth in circular motions for at least two minutes to get an effective clean. Brush softly against the gum line at a 45-degree angle, using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel. Finish with a mouthwash rinse, swishing it in your mouth for 30 seconds or as advised on the label, spitting it out once you’re done.
Choose your toothbrush wisely
Avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes as they can cause tooth and gum abrasion. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush for a thorough yet gentle clean. Ask your dentist about electric toothbrushes because the consistent vibrating movements make brushing easier and more efficient, especially for children and individuals who have trouble cleaning with the correct technique. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn out. Regularly replacing your toothbrush ensures optimal cleaning and prevents bacterial buildup on the bristles.
Stop smoking
Smoking leaves stains on teeth and increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, and other oral health problems. Smoking also hinders healing after oral surgeries and may slow down recovery processes. Limiting smoking or quitting it all together will help improve your oral and overall health.
Eat a nutritious diet
Consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients, minerals, and vitamins helps support good oral health, promoting healthier teeth and gums. Limit sugary foods and drinks to reduce the risk of tooth decay, and keep yourself hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. Water helps rinse away food particles and maintains proper saliva production, preventing dry mouth, which can increase the risk of tooth decay.
Visit the dentist regularly
Regular dental check-ups help detect potential dental issues early, preventing progression and allowing for timely treatment. Dental cleaning also helps remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease and dental caries. With routine dental checkups, you also get oral hygiene education, guidance on using the right products and tools, and answers to any oral health concerns you may have.
Begin Your Oral Health Journey with Boon Dental
Achieving optimal oral health is a partnership between you and your dentist. It’s more than following a basic oral care routine or just doing the bare minimum. The path to healthier teeth and gums involves customising your oral care routine to your specific needs with help and guidance from your dentist. At Boon Dental, we strive to work with you for a lifetime of great oral health, helping you with bespoke hygiene treatments, a range of dental procedures and gentle support and guidance from our friendly dentists. Contact us for an appointment today.