Mouthwash Pros & Cons

Most people assume that brushing their teeth gets rid of all the oral hygiene issues for them. However, they are not aware of the fact that it is not an all-in-one solution for your oral health. There are many other things that you should consider using apart from a toothpaste. One of the most important among the rest is mouthwash.

Pros of Using Mouthwash

#1: Prevents decay
Mouthwashes that contain fluoride can help to prevent potential cavities and strengthen your tooth enamel. PDE Team reminds you that not all  mouthwashes contain fluoride, so make sure that you check the back label of the mouthwash that you are going to buy.

#2: Fights gum disease & avoids plaque
Antibacterial mouthwashes can fight gum disease and can help in preventing the growth of plaque on your gums and teeth. While it surely prevents the growth of plaque, it cannot end the plaque that already exists. So PDE Team recommends that you brush your teeth regularly because together, they can be a cure to many of the oral problems.

#3: Freshens breath
Mouthwashes are able to freshen your breath temporarily. With a variety of flavors to choose from, therapeutic mouthwashes will kill bacteria associated with causing bad breath, hence eliminating the cause of bad breath rather than simply masking the smell.

#4: Reduce teeth sensitivity
Mouthwashes that contain arginine are prescribed for patients who have teeth sensitivity. This amino acid takes care of the sensitive sites and helps in gradually reducing teeth sensitivity.

#5: Helps in teeth whitening
Mouthwashes contain hydrogen peroxide. It is a bleaching agent that helps to remove the stains on the teeth. Regular use of mouthwash results in a bright and radiant smile.

#6: Heals ulcers in the mouth
Mouthwashes help to soothe ulcers in the mouth. It detoxes the area by cleaning the buildup of bacteria and helps to heal them gradually.

Cons of Using Mouthwash
#1: Masks bad breath
People tend to use mouthwash to mask their bad breath. However, it is vital to visit the dentist and practice dental hygiene to get rid of the foul smell, because masking it can lead to dental complications.

#2: Reduces the effect of toothpaste
Mouthwashes without fluoride tend to reduce the effect of toothpaste as it rinses out fluoride from the teeth. PDE Team advise their patients to use a mouthwash 30 minutes after brushing their teeth.

#3: May cause oral cancer
Mouthwashes are known to protect the mouth from various dental diseases. But mouthwashes that have alcohol content are speculated to cause oral cancer in patients.

PresiDental Esthetics (PDE) Team recommends using mouthwash during the day preferably after eating rather than limiting yourself to only using mouthwash after you have brushed your teeth. PDE Team also recommends choosing a mouthwash that contains fluoride and that is alcohol free.

PDE Team stresses on that you should not overuse mouthwash, and that you must STOP using mouthwash if you notice new mouth ulcers or new staining on your teeth