How to use mouthwash to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy.
Although there are many ways to fix damaged teeth, it’s always best to keep your existing teeth healthy. Along with brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist, the use of mouthwash will help keep your teeth and gums going strong. Today, we’re going to give you a crash course on how to use mouthwash and how often it should be a part of your dental care routine.
Common Benefits of Mouthwash
Many people use mouthwash on a regular basis because of its ability to freshen your breath, but it does a lot more than that. Not only does mouthwash prevent bad breath, but it also washes away bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. By keeping your mouth clean and free of bacteria, you’ll be much less likely to experience severe issues like tooth loss.
Effects of Overusing Mouthwash
While mouthwash is an effective tool when fighting against tooth decay and gum disease, you must be careful not to overuse it. The primary reason for this is because one of the primary ingredients in most types of mouthwash is alcohol.
This will kill harmful bacteria but can also cause dry mouth and related issues if you use it too often. You could always opt for a mouthwash that doesn’t use alcohol, but those contain types of chloride that can stain your teeth from overuse, which may need to be removed with a professional dental cleaning.
How Often to Use Mouthwash?
First, you should use mouthwash as part of your daily oral care routine. Most dentists recommend using mouthwash after you brush your teeth, but no more than twice per day. This will allow you to maximize the benefits from the mouthwash without worrying about either dry mouth or temporary staining.
How to Use Mouthwash
The first thing you’ll want to do before using mouthwash is to brush and floss your teeth. If you’re brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, then you should wait several minutes before using the mouthwash because it can wash away the fluoride.
Next, pour 3-5 teaspoons of mouthwash into either the bottle’s cap or a separate dental cup. Then, swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for several seconds and gargle with it for approximately 30 seconds. Finally, don’t swallow the mouthwash. Spit it into the sink instead.
Other Ways to Prevent Tooth Decay
Now that you know how to use mouthwash, let’s look at a few other techniques you can use to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease:
- Brush and Floss Daily— Brushing and flossing your teeth every day is the most essential dental health routine to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Regular Dental Visits— Visiting your dentist twice per year will ensure that your teeth and gums are doing well and allows you to catch potential problems early on.
- Watch What You Eat/Drink— Foods and beverages that are high in sugar and acids should be limited to reduce erosion of your teeth’s enamel, which can make them vulnerable.
- Two Cleanings Per Year— Getting a professional cleaning every six months will clear plaque build-up and help you keep a great smile all year round.
Contact Dr. Ferullo for the Best St. Petersburg Dentist Office
Dr. Ferullo can teach you how to use mouthwash and other dental techniques to improve your dental health and maintain a wonderful smile. If you’re in need of St. Petersburg dentistry or would like to learn about our free teeth whitening offer, get in touch with us by calling (727) 822-8101 today.
