Swish Smart: The Right Way to Use Mouthwash🪥

Mouthwash is an effective solution for improving oral hygiene and maintaining dental health, but some mistakes in how to use it can lead to health problems.

Dr. Tarun Nagpal, a dentist certified by Doctify (a digital platform that aims to provide online healthcare services), warns against these mistakes and offers tips on how to use mouthwash safely and effectively.

- Avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing

Mouthwash should not be used immediately after brushing, as this can remove the fluoride from the toothpaste, thus reducing its effectiveness. It is preferable to use mouthwash before brushing or at another time of day, such as after meals.

- Do not eat or drink immediately after using mouthwash.

Dr. Nagpal recommends waiting at least half an hour after using mouthwash before eating or drinking, especially if the mouthwash contains fluoride, to ensure maximum benefit from its therapeutic properties.

- Avoid overuse of mouthwash.

Excessive use of mouthwash products, especially those containing alcohol, can upset the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth and lead to problems such as dry mouth or oral thrush. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are recommended to reduce health risks.

- Choose therapeutic over cosmetic mouthwashes

Cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily mask bad breath but do not address the underlying causes. Therapeutic mouthwashes, on the other hand, contain active ingredients such as fluoride and antimicrobials that help strengthen teeth and reduce gum inflammation.

- Follow usage instructions carefully.

Some mouthwashes, such as those containing chlorhexidine, can cause temporary tooth staining if used for long periods. It is always important to follow the instructions for each product and consult your dentist if prolonged use is required.

Which mouthwash is best?

Dr. Nagpal recommends choosing mouthwashes based on your personal needs:

For cavity prevention: Fluoride-containing, alcohol-free mouthwash.

For gum health: Antibacterial mouthwashes, such as cetylpyridinium or chlorhexidine.

For dry mouth: Xylitol-containing mouthwashes to relieve dryness.

Always consult your dentist to choose the right mouthwash for your health needs and maintain safe and effective oral hygiene.

Source: Mirror - Published on 4-4-2025 - https://ar.rt.com/zlhg