Some dental patients wonder whether or not you should use mouthwash every day and what the benefits or drawbacks may be. The truth is that mouthwash can be very beneficial if used properly. Used in moderation, it can help improve oral health without causing any harm.
It is generally not recommended by dentists to use mouthwash every day or even at all for the matter. Most dentists will recommend that you brush your teeth and floss on a daily basis but not many will tell you that you need to use mouthwash.
What Does Mouthwash Do?
Mouthwash is typically used to help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth, which can cause cavities, bad breath and even gum disease. It works by killing or reducing the number of bacteria that are present in your mouth. The active ingredients in most different types of mouthwash all contain antiseptic properties that can help kill harmful bacteria.
While mouthwash can be a great addition to your oral health care routine, it is important to remember that it should never replace brushing and flossing. There are no studies or evidence showing that using mouthwash alone can be as effective as brushing and flossing regularly. It is best used as an extra step after brushing and flossing.
How Often Should You Use Mouthwash?
When it comes to how often you should use mouthwash, it’s best to listen to your dentist. Generally, it is recommended that you use mouthwash once or twice a day after brushing and flossing. This will help ensure that any lingering bacteria or food particles are removed from your teeth and mouth. However, it is not necessary to use mouthwash at all.
Can it Hurt to Use Mouthwash Every Day?
If you are concerned about using too much mouthwash, you are probably wondering if using it every day is too often.
While there can be some negative effects from using mouthwash too often, you will have to use it multiple times per day to see these negative effects. If you choose to use mouthwash every day, it’s best to stick with a milder version. Some mouthwashes contain harsh ingredients that can be harmful if used too frequently. Excessive use of alcohol-containing mouthwash can lead to dryness in the mouth and an increased risk of cavities.
Ultimately, if you are using mouthwash less than 2 times per day, you should be ok. It is also important to remember that your mouthwash should not replace brushing or flossing.
Should You Use Mouthwash as a Substitute for Brushing Your Teeth?
You should never replace brushing or flossing with using mouth wash. Brushing and flossing are both very important for getting rid of build up plaque between and around your teeth and gums. Mouthwash can help reduce bacteria, but it cannot get rid of plaque or food particles that may be stuck in between your teeth.
In conclusion, mouthwash can be a beneficial addition to your oral health care routine when used properly. However, it should never replace brushing and flossing as these are the most important steps for preventing cavities.
Contact Family Tree Dental Today!
If you’re located near the boarder of Ohio and West Virginia and are looking for a dentist to assist you with routine checkups and dental hygiene, contact Family Tree Dental today! We have several offices located in the area in towns such as Belpre and Marietta, Ohio.
