Types Of Mouthwash And How They Can Prevent Gum Disease
Posted on 12/15/2023 by Amir Hosseini, DDS
From an early age, we all learn why it is crucial to brush and floss regularly to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Unfortunately, despite keeping pace with good oral hygiene practices, gingivitis and gum disease still arise.
It is prudent we address issues with the gums early before they proceed to take hold of our mouths. Adding mouthwash to our oral hygiene routine provides added advantages when it comes to stumping off gum infections.
Types of Mouthwash
Various types of mouthwash exist, and they are meant to address different things, though they have a common goal of rinsing out the mouth. The common mouthwash products you can get are:
Alcohol-based Mouthwashes
These are effective at eliminating germs and bacteria residing in the mouth that cause plaque and gingivitis. However, you should be careful when using alcohol-based mouthwashes. They can cause a burning sensation in the gums. They can also dry out the mouth, contributing to reduced saliva production. As such, they could allow bacteria to multiply since no saliva to wash them away.
Alcohol-free Mouthwashes
Using alcohol-free mouthwashes is recommended since they don't irritate the gums. They do not bring reduced saliva production. As such they allow saliva to protect your gums and teeth. These mouthwashes can effectively ward off mouth bacteria when used along with flossing and brushing.
Fluoride Rinses
Though not designed to help fight bacteria and germs, they do to some extent, help in preventing bacteria plaque. They contain fluoride that works to boost the strength of the teeth's outer covering called enamel.
How Mouthwash Helps with Gum Inflammation?
While brushing and flossing may be the best action to take when aiming to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, you can still make the practice more effective with mouthwash. Mouthwashes help treat bacteria that bring about gingivitis. They also prevent plaque from forming.
Visit us if you are showing signs of gingivitis or gum disease. We can treat gum inflammation and gum disease before they turn worse. Remember to floss and brush and pick the right mouthwash.
Dental Blog - San Antonio • Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists We post dental blogs to pique your interest and educate our San Antonio community about topics related to dentistry, dental implants, and oral health. Aesthetic Periodontal & Implant Specialists, 1130 E Sonterra Blvd, Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78258 ~ (210) 614-4700 ~ aestheticperiodontist.com ~ 12/3/2024 ~ Associated Words: Dental Implants San Antonio TX ~
From an early age, we all learn why it is crucial to brush and floss regularly to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Unfortunately, despite keeping pace with good oral hygiene practices, gingivitis and gum disease still arise.