How to Choose a Mouthwash

You try to do everything you can to keep your teeth and gums healthy but what about using a mouthwash? There are so many choices on the market today it can often be confusing. Basically there are three categories most mouthwash falls under.

Fluoride Mouthwash

Generally if you use fluoridated toothpaste, an additional fluoride mouth rinse isn’t necessary. The exception is when you have dry mouth syndrome due to illness or certain medications, have multiple restorations in your mouth, or have a high risk of decay. Severe dry mouth can lead to tooth decay. A proper balance of salvia is required to wash away the harmful acids that bond with dental plaque, eventually causing cavities and gum disease.

Anti-Gingivitis or Plaque Reducing Mouth Rinses

Many dental experts agree this type of mouth rinse needs to become a part of your daily oral health routine. Both anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis dental rinses work to reduce and kill damaging mouth bacteria even the most thorough brusher can miss. Any brand which carries the American Dental Association seal of approval means the claims made by the manufacturer have been verified by an independent scientific testing facility.

Breath Freshening or Whitening Mouth Rinses

We all want sweet smelling breath and movie star white teeth along with good oral health. Just don’t assume these cosmetic mouthwashes will aid in killing the bacteria which contributes to tooth decay and gum disease. Many do kill bacteria but only for a short period of time; definitely not long enough to provide any lasting health benefits. Here at Ellis Dental, we carry Smart Mouth - Advanced Clinical Formula. Using Smart Mouth rinse twice daily will eliminate any bad breath you may have. We stock the 30oz bottles that aren't available in stores and offer them at a discounted price. For more information on Smart Mouth, visit their webiste: www.smartmouth.com

Bottom line; add a fluoride mouth rinse to your daily oral health routine if you don’t use fluoride toothpaste. Rinse daily with an anti-plaque or anti-gingivitis mouthwash and then if you want clean breath and white teeth perhaps use that type of mouthwash in the morning and a plaque fighting mouthwash in the evening.

Searching for a caring dentist in the Crestwood area? Please contact Ellis Dental today to schedule an appointment.