Although no miracle mouthwash makes brushing and flossing obsolete, you may still benefit from using one regularly. Because of the growing number of available products, you may be confused about which one is best for you. Additionally, there is the saltwater mouth rinse you make at home that many people claim is superior to commercially available products. Continue reading to learn more about the best mouthwash for your oral hygiene needs.
We can recommend the best mouth rinse to meet your needs, whether curing halitosis or fighting tooth decay. Call today to schedule an appointment.
The Benefits of Using a Mouthwash
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), mouth rinses can help with many conditions, such as:
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Dry socket. Around two or three days after an extraction, you can experience this painful condition that requires immediate dental attention. Some studies show that certain medicated mouthwashes can help prevent a dry socket.
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Halitosis. Food, dental plaque, and gum disease can release foul-smelling sulfur compounds that give you bad breath. Cosmetic mouthwashes provide a temporary solution to the odor but do not address the cause.
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Inflamed gums. Antimicrobial mouthwashes can help fight dental plaque that causes gingivitis which may lead to periodontal disease.
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Tooth decay. Fluoride mouth rinses have been shown to reduce tooth decay, especially in children.
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Discolored teeth. Whitening mouthwashes containing hydrogen peroxide and other whitening agents can help improve the appearance of teeth with excess surface stains.
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Dry mouth. Your dentist may recommend or prescribe a certain mouthwash to help prevent problems caused by xerostomia, dry mouth.
The Benefits of A Salt Water Mouth Rinse
Salt water has been used medicinally for millennia. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks used salt water mouth rinse type compounds orally and as ointments to fight various infections. Today, many people rely on a salt water mouth rinse to improve their oral health. Here are some possible oral health benefits of salt water:
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Reduces dental plaque. Bacteria that can harm your teeth and gums flourish in an acidic environment promoted by sugary foods. Salt water increases the pH in your mouth, which inhibits the growth of these bacteria and helps prevent plaque accumulation.
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Promotes oral healing. Salt water reduces inflammation and swelling that interferes with quick healing after oral procedures such as tooth extractions and oral surgery. It also supports tissue regeneration without irritating the healing tissues.
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Provides soothing relief. With a salt water rinse, toothaches, mouth ulcers, and gum infections can be relieved safely and effectively.
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Freshens bad breath. Rinsing and gargling with salt water can dislodge food debris and eliminate bacteria from your throat that contribute to bad breath.
Is a Salt Water Mouth Rinse Better Than Mouthwash?
Using a salt water mouth rinse may improve your oral health under the proper conditions. You should discuss whether this home remedy would be helpful or if a commercially available mouthwash would more adequately meet your needs. If using salt water, you need only use it as directed by your dentist. Overuse can affect your teeth’s enamel.
Schedule Appointment
We are committed to helping our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums and always have fresh breath. Call Trident Dental for a comprehensive oral examination and professional teeth cleaning to brighten your smile and breath.