Mouthwash is often used as part of a daily oral hygiene routine, however, it’s a common misconception that it can be used to replace brushing and flossing all together. After all, it kills bacteria and leaves your breath fresh so surely that’s all you need?
As a trusted local Bayside dental practice, Dr Tony Heilberg is the dentist Parkdale, Mentone and Cheltenham families trust for friendly and affordable dental care and treatment.
Here we will look at the reasons why mouthwash cannot compete with proper oral care and how it should be used.
Mouthwash Does Not Remove Plaque
Plaque builds up on your teeth and along the gum line when bacteria break down food particles. Not only can it cause bad breath, but it can also lead to tooth decay, gum disease and other severe dental issues.
Plaque is sticky meaning it cannot be removed by mouthwash alone.
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, plaque must be removed before it causes an oral microbiome imbalance and destroys your teeth.
The only way to remove plaque is by brushing and flossing/interdental cleaning at least two times per day and by having regular 6 or 12 monthly professional cleans by a dental professional.
Mouthwash Can Mask Underlying Problems
Bad breath may be a symptom of a more severe issue, and while a swish of mouthwash may leave your breath fresher, it will not treat serious oral health concerns.
Chronic bad breath may be an indicator of periodontal disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), sinus infections, and other problems.
Using mouthwash instead of brushing and interdental cleaning will only cover up the problem and can lead to more complicated issues if left undetected and untreat
Mouthwash Kills Good Bacteria
Mouths are home to a wide variety of bacteria, some of which are very beneficial.
Using mouthwash daily instead of brushing and thorough interdental cleaning can harm or kill all the good bacteria in your mout
How to Use Mouthwash
If there is a place for mouthwash in your oral health care regime, it should be determined only through discussion with your dentist and the mouthwash should be alcohol free.
Boosting Your Oral Care Routine
It’s vital to brush your teeth twice a day properly to remove food particles and plaque bacteria from your teeth and to floss or use interdental aides once a day to clean between your teeth and along your gumline. To optimise your dental health, you can also:
- Eat a well-balanced and healthy diet
- Limit high-sugar foods and drinks
- Avoid frequent snacking
- Drink fluoridated water
- Change your toothbrush every three to four months
- See your dentist regularly for check-ups
While it’s certainly not a substitute for brushing and flossing, mouthwash can at times play a role in your oral hygiene routine. Seek advice from your trusted dentist, they will be able to guide you on the most appropriate mouthwash for you – there are many products on the market and its not a ‘one size fits most’ situation. Oral health care is very individual and needs to be customised.
Looking For a Cheltenham Dental Clinic?
Whether you need a new family dentist or a reliable emergency dentist, Bayside Melbourne is home to Dr Tony Heilberg’s Dental Practice. Tony and his team strive to provide a welcoming environment whilst providing high quality professional dental care tailored to your needs and with your budget in mind. Request an appointment online now or give us a call today on (03) 9583 2233.
