Norman, OK dentist, Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, teaches patients that mouthwashes are valuable oral hygiene tools. It’s important to choose carefully among sensitive teeth rinses, anti-cavity mouthwashes and others to optimize effectiveness.
Of the many mouthwash choices on the market, which one is best for your health and oral hygiene routine? Sensitive teeth rinses, anti-cavity mouthwashes–different products address various patient needs. Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, Norman, OK dentist recommends understanding mouthwash ingredients and what each product accomplishes.
Mouthwash is part of oral hygiene
Using mouthwash helps oral health in many ways, However, patients must remember that mouthwash never replaces:
- twice daily brushing with a fluoride toothpaste
- daily flossing
- dental check-ups with Dr. Carmen every 6 months
- thorough, in-office cleanings to remove plaque and tartar
However, mouthwash is a great hygiene add-on. Being a liquid, any mouthwash reaches parts of the mouth that brushing and flossing cannot.
There are many kinds and brands of mouthwashes
Ask Dr. Carmen or your dental hygienist which mouthwash is right for you. Common over the counter rinses include:
- Fluoride mouthwash A smart choice for patients prone to dental decay, drugstore brands such as Rembrandt assist fluoride toothpastes and in-office fluoride varnish treatments in protecting enamel from acid-secreting bacteria.
- Sensitivity mouthwash This kind of product usually contains potassium citrate or nitrate which protects the tubules in a tooth’s inner dentin, the layer closest to the innervated pulp. It may also contain sodium fluoride to strengthen enamel. Sensodyne may be best known among consumers for treatment of sensitive teeth.
- Antiseptic mouthwash Corsodyl contains chlorhexidine, a common oral antiseptic especially useful for people with gum disease. It inhibits microbial activity at the gum line and is often recommended by dentists and hygienists to control infection.
- Dry mouth rinses Diabetics, denture wearers, oxygen patients and other people frequently experience xerostomia or dry mouth. Biotene and other dry mouth rinses contain oral moisturizers that make the mouth more comfortable and less irritated.
- Bad breath mouthwashes Scope and Listerine are mainstays in the battle against bad breath germs because of their germ fighting alcohol content. The American Dental Association cautions that overuse of alcohol-based rinses can actually dry oral tissues and eliminate the good bacteria in the mouth, increasing the likelihood of decay and gum disease.
Read the directions
As with any medicine (Yes, mouthwash is medicine.), read the label directions carefully before purchasing and using any mouthwash. Consult Norman dentist, Bobby J. Carmen DDS, and his team for counsel on what type and brand of rinse is best for your oral health.
In addition, never swallow mouthwash; spit it out after use. Children under the age of 7 should not use mouthwash, and even older children should be supervised during use.
Find out more about best oral hygiene practices
During your next visit with Dr. Carmen, ask about mouthwash and the part it may play in maintaining your oral health. He and his team enjoy patient teaching and see it as a vital part of the cosmetic, restorative and general dentistry services they provide at their Norman, OK office.
Have you had your routine exam and cleaning? Contact the office today for an appointment.