For most people, they will tell you that they want a healthy mouth and an attractive smile; yet, are they really doing all they can to ensure that their mouth is as healthy as it can be? Many people wonder whether the use of mouthwash is necessary in achieving optimal oral health. The short answer is, no. No, mouthwash is not necessary as long as you are flossing every single day and brushing at least twice a day. However, if you do not qualify as one of those people, then we suggest you keep reading.
Mouthwash was designed to be another tool for keeping the mouth healthy, as well as freshening the breath after eating. Mouthwash was never designed to take the place of brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. The mouth is home to millions of bacteria that thrive on the left over food particles inside your mouth after eating. As these bacteria work to break down these tiny bits of food, they produce acids that are very damaging to the teeth and gums. Floss is the only tool designed to reach inside the tight spaces of the teeth and remove bits of food and bacteria-laden plaque, so if you are not flossing daily then your teeth have an overabundance of damaging bacteria.
Those who do generally skip out on flossing their teeth and have been known to occasionally skip brushing their teeth can definitely benefit from the use of a good mouthwash. It is important to choose a mouthwash with the American Dental Association’s seal of approval because it will be proven effective at fighting cavities and lowering your risk for gum disease. Pregnant women are also highly benefited from using a mouthwash throughout their pregnancies because of their increased risk for oral health issues. The huge fluctuation in hormones makes a pregnant woman’s mouth more susceptible to irritated gums, infection, and gum disease. It is especially important to know that gum disease in pregnant women has been directly linked to the chance of miscarriage, preterm labor, and low birth weight babies.
Mouthwash is never meant to take the place of brushing and flossing, however it can be an essential tool for keeping your mouth as clean and healthy as possible. If you have any questions regarding the use of mouthwash and whether or not it will benefit your oral health, contact our dental practice today.
Posted on behalf Ashley Dinh, DDS
Ashley Dinh, DDS
107 E Holly Ave, Suite 5
Sterling, VA 20164
(703) 430-6655
Monday – Friday 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM