Fresh-smelling breath is nice, but keeping your mouth healthy and clean is even better.
A rinse with mouthwash is refreshment like no other, especially after a nice brushing and flossing. But other than keeping your breath smelling fresh, what else does mouthwash do for you? Well for one, it’s doing wonders for your oral hygiene.
What Is Mouthwash?
There are a plurality of mouthwash types and brands, and this is evident whenever you go down the oral-hygiene aisle at your local supermarket.
Whenever you’re looking to purchase mouthwash, it’s a good idea to check the ingredients lists before you buy anything; there may be something inside the bottle you’re sensitive or allergic to.
Common Ingredients
Alcohol – May be substituted for other antimicrobial agents, but the purpose for this ingredient is to kill germs that cause tooth decay and bad breath.
Detergents – These help dislodge and get rid of food particles and loose plaque.
Flavors – In conjunction with colors(which improve the look), these improve the overall taste of the mouthwash.
Preservatives – These are inside the bottle so that bacteria won’t grow in the mouthwash.
Water – Is in mouthwash to dissolve the other ingredients.
Fluoride – This ingredient is usually included to help make teeth more acid-resistant; fluoride also is a big help in the fight against tooth decay.
What Should I Look for When It Comes to Mouthwash?
Ask yourself these questions:
Am I comfortable with the smell?
– You’re going to want a mouthwash that has a smell you like, for this is largely what gives you the confidence in having a fresh mouth.
Will this give me dry mouth?
– Alcohol is a drying agent. If you don’t want dry mouth, stay clear of mouthwashes that include alcohol.
Does this have fluoride?
– You want to purchase mouthwashes that have fluoride in them because tooth decay prevention is important. Always be careful though: if you swallow too much fluoride, you could have a very adverse reaction that lands you in the hospital.