You brush, you floss, you watch what you eat. But do you use mouthwash? Outside of fresh breath, is it necessary? At King Orthodontics, we recommend mouthwash for an array of reasons. Sure there is the obvious benefit of fighting bad breath, and some products are specifically designed to do a better job of this, but you may be surprised to learn that’s not all you gain.
Let’s see what mouthwash can do for you:
Did you know that antiseptic mouthwash can tackle the bacteria that love to live on your gums? Bacteria is the ugly culprit of gum disease, and some people for genetic or lifestyle reasons are more prone to it. If tooth decay or gingivitis is something you are prone to or worry about, we recommend an antiseptic mouthwash to combat any underlying or lingering issues.
Nobody wants to deal with tooth decay and bacterial infections. The fluoride in mouthwash is a great source of help in the war against germs. Not only does fluoride strengthen your teeth, it will kill the bacteria that naturally exist in your mouth.
You may find that your family is reaching for the bottled water as they walk out the door. Keep in mind that bottled water does not contain the important fluoride that your tap water does so your dental health may be missing that important component.
Okay, let’s face it, bad breath stinks. You may not even realize you have a problem. If you struggle with chronic bad breath, it may be a sign of a bigger problem such as a bacterial infection. It’s important to call your dentist to see what options are best for you.
While you should be just fine with any mouthwash approved by the American Dental Association, call us with any questions you have. In some cases, the high alcohol content of certain mouthwashes may irritate sensitive gums. King Orthodontics is happy to point you in the right direction and help you select the best mouthwash for you.