Mouthrinses or Mouthwashes
- Why use a mouthrinse?
- What does a mouthrinse do?
- What are the main ingredients and properties of conventional mouthrinses?
- Should I swallow the mouthrinse?
- What do alternative or herbal mouthrinses contain?
1. Why use a mouthrinse?
- Daily oral hygiene practice should include brushing with toothpaste, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash.
- The mouthrinse reaches between the teeth, where the toothbrush cannot get to.
- It also disinfects all the oral tissues, including the tongue.
See Halitosis
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2. What does a mouthrinse do?
- Similar claims are made for mouthrinses as for toothpastes:
- They freshen the mouth and protect the teeth from decay.
- Breath freshening is a feature of all mouthrinses.
- Most mouthrinses contain fluoride to prevent decay.
- Some mouthrinses claim to have antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
- Treatment for sensitive teeth is included in many mouthrinses.
- The instructions and age restrictions listed on the container should be strictly adhered to.
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3. What are the main ingredients and properties of conventional mouthrinses?
- Peroxide.
- This is an antiseptic which is used to treat mouth ulcers and gingivitis with bleeding gums.
- It should only be used for a limited time.
- Chlorohexidine.
- This is an antibacterial and antiviral medication.
- It is used to treat gingivitis.
- Chlorohexidine may leave stains on the teeth, but the dentist can remove them (see Staining of Teeth).
- Chlorohexidine is safe to use for a short time.
- Fluoride
- Fluoride mouthrinses can reduce and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Potassium chloride
- This chemical is used to desensitise teeth.
- Triclosan
- Triclosan is an antibacterial ingredient, and is also used in many toothpastes.
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4. Should I swallow the mouthrinse?
- No. Mouthrinses are not to be swallowed. However, it doesn’t matter if you swallow some by mistake.
- Peroxide and chlorohexidine are not safe to swallow. They are safe for rinsing only.
- The regular use and spitting out of a fluoride mouthwash is perfectly safe.
- Excessive doses of fluoride can cause fluorosis or can even be toxic.
See Fluoride
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5. What do the alternative or herbal mouthrinses contain?
- Herbs, essential oils and other natural products are the main ingredients of alternative products.
- The ingredients are claimed to have many beneficial effects:
- Aloe Vera has a soothing effect.
- Vitamin K strengthens teeth.
- Tee tree oil is an antibacterial and antiviral ingredient.
- Grapefruit seed extract has antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
- Echinacea is anti-inflammatory and antiviral.
- Goldenseal claims to be anti-inflammatory and antiviral.
It is also an antibiotic.
- Peppermint oil and menthol are added for fresh, natural flavour.
See Alternative Dentistry
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