Do I Really Need Mouthwash?

According to TV commercials, mouthwash is one of the essential parts of dental care and a proper oral health routine, but is it really necessary? Especially for those who brush and floss regularly, it can seem a bit redundant to swish a substance in your mouth just to brush it out. Check out the facts on mouthwash benefits and downfalls, and choose for yourself if it is right for you.

Mouthwash Benefits

There are some undeniable truths to how using mouthwash increases oral health. First and foremost, mouthwash provides an extra protective layer against cavities. Mouthwash that is high in fluoride will naturally increase the strength and regularity of remineralizing enamel in order to avoid soft spots for plaque to grow. Mouthwash is also great for use when you cannot brush or floss right away. For example, at work you may eat something sticky or sugary that would damage your teeth if left alone for too long. Having an extra bottle of mouthwash would prevent any cavity production throughout the day. With it’s alcoholic properties, mouthwash can also speed up the cure of canker sores or any cuts inside your mouth by detoxing the area.

Mouthwash Downfalls

Surprisingly enough, although mouthwash has the ability to cure canker sores, it can also further irritate them if there is too much alcohol or other chemicals in the specific mouthwash. Confusing, but very accurate. Use with caution. Also, mouthwash does not work as a supplement for brushing and flossing your teeth. There is nothing that can replace scrubbing away the plaque by a brush, and mouthwash cannot come close to removing all of the plaque build up from throughout the day. Rumors of mouthwash causing cancer have developed over the years although have never been 100% proven. There are cases that seem to correlate but nothing is for sure.

All we know for sure is that mouthwash is a great way to add extra insurance to your oral health routine. If you choose to use mouthwash along with brushing and flossing, then your teeth will only have a better chance of staying pearly white and cavity free. Ultimately though, it cannot replace the traditional oral cleaning habits.

Even those with a top notch oral routine – mouthwash, floss and brushing your teeth twice a day – should regularly visit the dentist, attending at least two check up appointments a year. At Greenspoint Dental, we know how important oral health is to your overall well being. If you and your family are ready for your bi-annual check ups or are interested in more information about mouthwash benefits, contact Greenspoint Dental in Houston, Texas today.