THE INTERACTIVE BLOG

Even people who diligently brush and floss their teeth can suffer from unsavory things such as bad breath — also known as halitosis — and gum disease such as gingivitis or periodontitis. One easy step that can help prevent these unwanted conditions from occurring is using mouthwash.

There are a variety of different mouthwashes available, everything from harsh alcohol-based mouthwashes to home remedies — even gin or vodka. Read on for tips on how to choose the right one for any situation. 

Fluoride mouthwashes

In addition to eliminating bad breath and gum disease, many mouthwashes also add fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent by replenishing the enamel layer of the teeth, which is attacked daily by bacteria and plaque build up.

For patients that suffer from dental erosion, using mouthwash with fluoride in it can be an effective way to help prevent tooth decay. Dentists often administer a special fluoride mouthwash when patients visit for teeth cleanings, but there are also several brands available that provide a lower dosage treatment for at-home use. 

Alcohol-based mouthwashes

Many mouthwashes use some form of alcohol, which can make using the mouthwash unpleasant for some people. These types of mouthwash can also leave the mouth dry, which can actually help bacteria grow and lead to bad breath.

However, many brands that used to use alcohol — sometimes more than 25 percent of the total mixture — now offer varieties that are alcohol free. 

Alternatives

Some people who want to use mouthwash do not because they seek an all-natural alternative. Most mouthwashes contain numerous chemicals and artificial sweeteners that make them unattractive to some customers. Fortunately, there are several alternatives. Some dentists recommend using a salt water mixture, which can treat the mouth for infections.

This can be created by dissolving a teaspoon of salt into warm water. Hydrogen peroxide can be used as mouthwash as well and will help destroy bacteria, but it does not have the breath-freshening effect that many people using mouthwash come to expect. Before the advent of off-the-shelf mouthwashes, many people used various spirits, such as vodka or gin, to kill bacteria in their mouths.

This can obviously be problematic, as the user will smell of alcohol for some time after he or she rinses their mouth. One other option is the use of salvadora persica, which is known as the toothbrush tree. However, the use of this product can lead to discoloration, so it is not the best option.

Robert Seitzinger is copywriter for Pacific Family Dental, a general dentist in Sherwood. Learn more ways to brighten a smile from this Sherwood dentist.