Can mouthwash help improve your dental care routine?

A stroll down any pharmacy aisle will tell you that dental care products have reached an all-time high – and with so many products available, it’s no surprise that confusion can often set in with the endless array available to consumers. But know that many dental products can supplement your daily oral care routine. Of course, if you have any doubt as to which products are right for you, it’s always appropriate to call your Poway dentist and ask. Otherwise, if you have an overall healthy mouth, consider adding mouthwash to your everyday oral healthcare routine.

What’s in a rinse?

Oral rinses, according to Oral B, contain a variety of ingredients that can boost daily brushing and flossing. One ingredient, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), is a germ fighting substance that helps to keep bacteria at bay. It is considered safe and effective and can also aid in combating bad breath.

Other ingredients commonly found in oral washes include essential oils like wintergreen, licorice, or even lemon oil to help rejuvenate the mouth and improve the overall look, feel, and taste inside the mouth. Some essential oils may not be appropriate for all people, so check with a dentist in Poway to make sure you are using an oral rinse appropriate for your specific medical background.

Studies on oral rinses                                      

If you’re interested in supplementing your oral healthcare regimen with a mouthwash, you are in good company, as thousands of Americans use mouthwash every day. A recent study also concluded that people who used oral rinses containing chlorhexidine, or povidone iodine, as part of their everyday dental care routine, saw less plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

The good news is that people who are already using a mouthwash can look forward to a lesser risk for gingivitis – one of the leading dental problems affecting Americans today. Coupled with regular dental cleanings, and daily brushing and flossing, mouthwashes can lead to a healthier mouth right now. And the best part? You can start using a mouthwash right away so long as your dentist in Poway approves.

Other perks

If you’re considering adding mouthwash to your daily routine, consider the following mouthwashes when perusing the dental care aisle on your next pharmacy visit.

Whitening

Nowadays, you can find mouthwashes with all the bells and whistles including whitening benefits. Generally, these types of oral rinses use a form of hydrogen peroxide to help whiten teeth over time.

Fluoride

Those concerned with too much bacteria in the mouth or cavity control can opt for a fluoride mouthwash as long as your dentist has given you the go-ahead. Fluoride does not remove plaque; instead, it helps protect teeth by inhibiting acids produced by plaque.

Sensitive teeth

If you suffer from sensitive teeth, try using a mouthwash designed to improve the condition. Using a combination of ingredients – some including fluoride – users can find relief in as little as a week of use. Coupled with toothpaste made for sensitive teeth, this can be a winning combination for those affected with teeth that are overly-reactive to hot or cold.

For those who are interested in improving their overall dental regimen, call Dr. Coleman, one of Poway’s best dentists, at (858) 748-4802 and schedule an appointment today.

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Photo Credit: Oral B (oralb.com)