Added Benefits of Mouthwash

Mouthwash can be a great supplement to brushing & flossing as it helps prevent buildup of harmful plaque. But it can also have added benefits for your oral health when used properly.

Before & After Procedures

Dentists are more frequently turning to mouthwashes to help prepare & provide after care for oral surgery. The antiseptic nature of mouthwash can help prevent infection: killing harmful bacteria while not upsetting the natural biome of your mouth. 

Cavities

While mouthwash cannot reverse cavities that have already formed, preventing plaque buildup is a key part of keeping your teeth filling free. Some mouthwashes that have fluoride have better results in terms of cavity prevention. Using mouthwash to prevent cavities can be especially useful for people wearing traditional braces. 

Teeth Whitening

Mouthwash can aid in keeping your teeth white too, particularly those with peroxide. Analysis shows, however, that some purported effects may be inflated. Whitening effects are caused by the bleaching property of peroxide, as well as removing plaque & food that can stain teeth.

The Limits

Mouthwash is not a way to treat oral health issues. Rather, it’s designed as a preventative care rinse. For example, while using mouthwash has been shown to help prevent gum disease, there isn’t as much evidence for it to reduce the more advanced form of the disease: periodontitis. 

Similarly, while mouthwash helps freshen breath, reducing halitosis, or bad breath, it may not treat the underlying reason for bad breath. Some harmful bacteria is removed, particularly with antimicrobial rinses, but the causes for halitosis vary & may need to be determined by your dentist. 

Best Practice

In order to get the most out of your mouthwash, it’s recommended to use it two to three times a day in addition to your regular oral hygiene routine of brushing & flossing. While mouthwash can enhance the benefits of proper home hygiene, it doesn’t replace the need for regular cleanings at your dentist.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10690548/

https://health.osu.edu/health/dental-health/does-mouthwash-kill-the-mouths-healthy-bacteria

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-53213-x