While mouthwash is not a required element of everyday oral care, it can offer some advantages. Depending upon the type of mouthwash, it can help reduce the likelihood of decay, reduce bad breath, or add fluoride to help your teeth stay stronger. For answers to your questions about mouthwash, please contact our dental office in Denver.

Types of Mouthwash

There are various types of mouthwash, each offering different advantages. These include:

Antiseptic mouthwashes. These mouthwashes kill bacteria that can cause bad breath or promote tooth decay.

Fluoride mouthwashes. These mouthwashes provide additional fluoride to increase the strength of your teeth, and are particularly good for those who develop cavities at a higher rate. It is important not to dilute fluoride mouthwashes in order to receive the most benefit.

Prescription mouthwashes. These mouthwashes are prescribed by your dentist. In some cases such as after dental or periodontal surgery, you may be unable to brush your teeth for a period of time due to discomfort. To help keep your teeth clean during this time, your dentist might prescribe a special mouthwash.

Deciding Whether to Use a Mouthwash

The decision to use a mouthwash should be based on whether the mouthwash will provide a benefit. If you are suffering from bad breath, a mouthwash can help reduce the symptoms. If you find that you develop cavities in spite of diligent oral care, ask your dentist about using a fluoride toothpaste. Any concerns about halitosis should be discussed with your dentist, who will be able to recommend the best type of treatment, which may include regular use of a mouthwash. He can also alert you to any issues that might be involved in your using a mouthwash.

Of course, if your dentist prescribes a mouthwash, be sure to use it regularly and according to your dentist’s instructions. For over-the-counter mouthwashes, if you find that you are happy with the results, using a mouthwash can be a good addition to your everyday oral care.