Mouthwash kills good AND bad bacteria. It may seem like a good idea to get rid of the bacteria in the mouth, but by killing ALL of the bacteria, it throws off the balance in our oral microbiome. That said, it's a good idea to stay away from mouthwashes that kill 99% of all the bacteria.
Chlorhexidine
Chlorhexidine is the main ingredient in mouthwash that serves as an antiseptic to kill bacteria. Unfortunately, it's also a major allergen.
LISTERINE ® Antiseptic lyses, kills, and inhibits growth of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
Alcohol-based mouthwashes (read: the vast majority of them) have a habit of drying out the tissue in your mouth. As alcohol evaporates, it takes saliva and other moisture with it, worsening cases of dry mouth. Not to mention, mouthwash stings, meaning it can aggravate ulcers and sores.
While not a replacement for daily brushing and flossing, use of mouthrinse (also called mouthwash) may be a helpful addition to the daily oral hygiene routine for some people. Like interdental cleaners, mouthrinse offers the benefit of reaching areas not easily accessed by a toothbrush.
It may cause dry mouth. Regular or excessive use of alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out your mouth, which can lead to tooth sensitivity, bad breath, and even cavities. It can mask potential oral health issues.
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.
Using a mouthwash that contains fluoride can help prevent tooth decay, but don't use mouthwash (even a fluoride one) straight after brushing your teeth or it'll wash away the concentrated fluoride in the toothpaste left on your teeth. Choose a different time to use mouthwash, such as after lunch.
Mouthwash Is a Short-Term Fix
And if breath isn't fresh after a good brushing, it typically means it's packed full of bacteria. Mouthwash doesn't remove the sticky plaque and bacteria that only a good brushing and flossing can.
Does salt water kill bacteria? Salt water may kill some, but does not kill all, mouth and throat bacteria. However, solutions of salt can help bring bacteria to the surface of the gums, teeth, and throat. Once the bacteria is brought to the surface, some of it washes away when a person spits the salt water out.
While it can depend on the specific mouthwash you use and the advice of your dentist, most mouthwashes should be used no more than twice a day. Make sure to read the label and follow the instructions.
Mouthwash kills good AND bad bacteria. It may seem like a good idea to get rid of the bacteria in the mouth, but by killing ALL of the bacteria, it throws off the balance in our oral microbiome. That said, it's a good idea to stay away from mouthwashes that kill 99% of all the bacteria.
Should you use mouthwash before bed? You certainly can, but use it half an hour after you brush so your toothpaste fluoride has time to work first. That way, the mouthwash adds to the protection. Otherwise, using the mouthwash right after you brush simply washes away the toothpaste fluoride.
For an added boost to oral health, consider using a mouthwash or rinse before bed. A rinse will help to remove bacteria from your mouth and can effectively help prevent cavities.
Beyond these conditions, studies by BioMed Research International suggest alcohol free mouthwashes have a better effect on the gloss, colour, hardness and wear of tooth composite restorations compared to mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
Mouthwash after Brushing and Flossing
It is the most appropriate combination because brushing and flossing clear out bacteria, food debris, and other unwanted items; on the other hand, mouthwash provides a solid end.
Using a fluoride rinse does not replace daily brushing and flossing, but it should be used following your daily schedule at bedtime. Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after rinsing. It is important for the active ingredient to stay on your teeth for 30 minutes, so do not wash it away by eating, drinking or rinsing.
- DO swish with mouthwash for 30 to 60 seconds.
Mouthwash is generally meant to be swished around in the mouth for 30 to 60 seconds. Make sure you follow the directions on your specific bottle.
If you brush your teeth well, twice a day, and floss daily, mouthwash is not strictly necessary. However, most dentists highly recommend adding mouthwash to your morning and evening routine.
Mouthwashes and mouth rinses are meant to be spit out, not swallowed, because even natural mouthwash products may contain ingredients that can be poisonous if ingested in large amounts.
There is no clear answer to this question. Some people use mouthwash several times a day, while others only use it once or twice a week. It is generally recommended to use mouthwash after brushing and flossing.