Mouthwash, also known as oral rinse, is a liquid solution used to clean your teeth, gums, and mouth. It typically contains antiseptics to eliminate harmful bacteria that live between your teeth and on your tongue. 

People use mouthwash for various reasons, such as fighting bad breath or trying to prevent tooth decay. 

However, it's important to note that mouthwash doesn't replace brushing or flossing and is only effective when used correctly. 

Different mouthwash formulas contain different ingredients, so not all of them can strengthen your teeth. Here's a simple guide on how to use mouthwash properly.

How to Use Mouthwash

1. Brush Your Teeth First

Before using mouthwash, make sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. If you’re using fluoride toothpaste, wait a bit before rinsing with mouthwash to avoid washing away the fluoride.

2. Measure the Mouthwash

Pour the recommended amount of mouthwash into the cup provided with the product or a plastic measuring cup. Typically, this is between 3 and 5 teaspoons.

3. Swish and Gargle

Empty the cup into your mouth and swish the mouthwash around without swallowing it. Gargle for 30 seconds. You can set a timer or count to 30 in your head.

4. Spit It Out

Spit the mouthwash out into the sink. Remember, mouthwash is not meant to be swallowed.

When to Use Mouthwash?

Mouthwash can be used as part of your daily teeth-cleaning routine or in a pinch to freshen your breath. To be effective at strengthening tooth enamel or fighting gum disease, it should be used right after brushing and flossing when your teeth are freshly cleaned.

How Often Should You Use Mouthwash?

Using mouthwash isn’t necessary for maintaining oral hygiene but can be beneficial. Most mouthwash products recommend using them twice daily after brushing and flossing.

How Does Mouthwash Work?

The ingredients in mouthwash vary depending on the brand and purpose. Mouthwash helps prevent plaque and gingivitis by using antiseptic ingredients like alcohol, menthol, and eucalyptol, which kill bacteria in hard-to-reach places. Some mouthwashes also contain fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce cavities.

For those looking to go for safe, sound, and non-alcoholic mouthwash options, you can consider PUREXA hydrogen peroxide mouthwash and PUREXA antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibacterial mouthwash.

Precautions When Using Mouthwash

Mouthwash often contains high levels of alcohol and fluoride, which shouldn't be ingested in large amounts, especially by children. The American Dental Association advises against using mouthwash for children under the age of 6. Adults should also avoid swallowing mouthwash.

If you have open sores or oral lesions, consult your dentist before using mouthwash, as it could potentially cause more harm than good.

Also Read - PUREXA Antioxidant Mouthwash- How can it help you fix your oral problems?

Bottom-line

Mouthwash can help prevent bad breath, rinse out plaque, and fight gum disease but should not replace regular brushing and flossing. For mouthwash to be effective, it must be used correctly. If you have persistent bad breath or suspect gum disease, consult a dentist, as mouthwash alone cannot address these issues.

Written by Dr. Shipra Jaiswal, BDS, MDS, a Periodontist and Gums Specialist