Mouthwash is a liquid product designed to be swished around the mouth to supplement the cleaning action of brushing and flossing. While it is not a replacement for mechanical cleaning, incorporating it correctly into your routine offers additional benefits for oral health. Effectiveness depends on choosing the right type and executing the usage steps precisely. Proper technique ensures active ingredients have adequate contact time to deliver their intended function, whether freshening breath or actively preventing disease.
Selecting the Appropriate Type
Mouthwashes fall into two main categories. Cosmetic mouthwashes primarily offer temporary relief from bad breath and a pleasant taste, but they do not contain ingredients that address the underlying causes of oral disease. These are best used for quick breath freshening when no therapeutic action is needed.
In contrast, therapeutic mouthwashes contain specific active ingredients designed to control or reduce conditions like plaque, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Common active ingredients include fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel against decay, and cetylpyridinium chloride, an antiseptic that reduces plaque and fights bad breath. For more advanced conditions, prescription-strength rinses containing chlorhexidine are sometimes used to control gingivitis and plaque buildup.
Step-by-Step Usage Mechanics
Start by measuring the correct amount of liquid, typically between 15 to 20 milliliters (three to five teaspoons), as indicated on the bottle. Use the measuring cap provided to avoid using too little, which reduces the effect, or too much, which could lead to irritation.
Once the correct amount is in your mouth, swish the solution vigorously to ensure it reaches all tooth surfaces, the gums, and the tongue. Therapeutic action usually requires a full 30 to 60 seconds, allowing the active ingredients time to work. Gargling briefly is often recommended to cleanse the back of the tongue and throat, areas where odor-causing bacteria reside. After the time is up, spit the liquid out into the sink without swallowing, as the ingredients are not meant for ingestion.
Integrating Mouthwash into Your Oral Care Routine
The timing of your rinse relative to brushing is important, especially when using a therapeutic product that contains fluoride. It is recommended to use mouthwash after brushing and flossing to ensure the mouth is clear of debris, allowing the rinse to work more effectively. Using mouthwash immediately after brushing with fluoride toothpaste can wash away the concentrated fluoride left on the teeth, diluting its protective effect.
For maximum benefit, wait at least 30 minutes after brushing before using the mouthwash, or use the rinse at a separate time, such as after lunch. Following the rinse, avoid immediately rinsing your mouth with water. Rinsing with water washes away active ingredients, such as fluoride, before they can fully strengthen the enamel. Similarly, refrain from eating or drinking for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the protective agents to remain on your teeth and gums.