It destroys the bacterial balance in your mouth, dries out the skin, causes imbalances in pH levels, worsens bad breath, may cause mouth ulcers and increase your risk for oral cancer, and it may contribute to the development of gingivitis.
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.
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.
Mouthwash is not necessary for your oral health. It's not a substitute for brushing and flossing, and if you brush at least twice a day for two minutes and you floss once a day, chances are that using mouthwash regularly will not make a huge difference.
Aside from alcohol, studies also show that commercially available mouthwashes have low PH level or are highly acidic with acid levels that are almost the same as your household vinegar. This compounds the deleterious effect of the alcohol in your mouthwash by hastening the erosion of your tooth enamel.
This sticky, disgusting layer of film is called oral thrush, and it's normal to want to rid your mouth of the foul substance as quickly as possible! Read on to learn more from your dentist about what causes oral thrush, along with some measures you can take to address it and maintain good oral health.
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.
Mouthwash after Brushing and Flossing
Standard practice and most effective sequence in many households. 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.
All dentists agree that any child under the age of six should never use mouthwash. This is especially true if the mouthwash contains alcohol. Children who are below the age of six are more likely to swallow the liquid, and this could be harmful to their health.
The ADA Council on Scientific Affairs' Acceptance of Listerine Antiseptic is based on its finding that the product is safe and has shown efficacy in helping to prevent and reduce gingivitis (and plaque above the gumline), when used as directed.
Chlorhexidine Mouthwash
It is a broad spectrum antimicrobial with particular use against bacteria that cause gum disease. Dentists do sometimes employ chlorhexidine mouthwash to treat patients with gum disease. Studies have shown it can reduce inflammation caused by periodontal bacteria.
Due to the limited penetration abilities of an oral rinse, mouthwashes really are effective only on bacteria on the surface of the teeth. Healthy teeth and gums are properly maintained by brushing and flossing correctly and having routine dental cleanings and checkups.
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.
Use a mouth rinse before bed
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.
While it may be surprising, a study has found that flossing first followed by brushing with a fluoride toothpaste is more effective in removing interdental plaque than brushing first, flossing second. In addition, flossing before brushing results in greater fluoride retention between teeth.
Tartar – The bacteria in your mouth form a sticky layer on your teeth called plaque. If left untouched, plaque will eventually turn into a hard substance called tartar that can turn brown.
Tartar Buildup
The tartar itself is porous and is highly susceptible to discoloration and staining. Foods, beverages, and other factors can turn it a noticeable brown color as a result. The buildup of tartar on and between teeth is often the result of a lack of brushing and flossing on a regular basis.
The simplest cause of your mouth peeling may be the toothpaste you are using. Some have a mild allergic reaction to certain toothpastes, especially those with whitening. An easy fix to this may simply be switching to a different toothpaste.
In fact, while brushing leaves bacteria behind, LISTERINE ZERO® is the alcohol-free mouthwash proven to kill 99.9% of bad breath germs1—making it an essential step in your patients' daily oral care regimen.
Poisonous Ingredient
The ingredients in mouthwash that can be harmful in large amounts are: Chlorhexidine gluconate. Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) Hydrogen peroxide.
Which mouthwash is safer for your teeth? Alcohol-free mouthwash is considered to be safer for your teeth because you do not have to worry about your enamel being weakened by the alcohol in your mouthwash or your gums burning while you rinse.