It is well known that proper oral hygiene is not achieved by the mere presence of a toothbrush and toothpaste. Mouthwash along with toothpaste, brush and floss is one of the most important tools needed to ensure proper and mandatory dental care. Therefore, in this article, Estet-portal decided to tell you about what types of mouthwashes are, who, according to the advice of dentists, are recommended to use such products, and what diseases of the teeth and gums they can protect you from if used correctly. 

Mouthwashes are used for many purposes: to freshen breath, prevent cavities, reduce bacterial plaque, prevent and combat gingivitis, and reduce the rate at which hardened plaque builds up on teeth.

The active ingredients vary depending on the type of mouthwash. They can be divided into 4 main groups:

1. antimicrobial agents. Act directly on oral bacteria, help fight plaque, reduce bad breath.

2. Fluorine. Helps fight micro-damage to tooth enamel and makes teeth more resistant to caries.

3. Astringent salts. Can serve as temporary deodorants to mask odors.

4. Odor neutralizers. Chemically block the activity of compounds that cause unpleasant odors.

Difference between cosmetic and medical mouthwash

Cosmetic mouthwashes can temporarily suppress or reduce bad breath and leave a pleasant taste in the mouth. However, they do not eliminate the cause of the unpleasant odor. They do not kill the bacteria that cause bad breath or block the activity of chemicals that cause bad breath. In addition, no cosmetic product fights plaque, gingivitis and caries.

Healing mouthwashes help fight plaque, gingivitis, cavities and bad breath. Some of them fight the bacteria present in plaque – adhesive film that forms on the teeth and gums. Bacteria in plaque produce toxins that can damage gums. Plaque not removed during brushing can cause gingivitis – early stage of gum disease. If plaque is allowed to accumulate further, gingivitis can progress to the last stage of gum disease – periodontitis, it can be cured only by a dentist. Plaque can also develop into tartar – hard substance that can only be removed by professional cleaning. Some medicinal mouthwashes contain substances which either fight bacteria or chemically block the activity of odor-causing substances. Medicated mouthwashes containing fluoride help fight cavities.

Who needs mouthwash

The dentist will answer this question. Rinsing helps to remove dirt from the mouth. It can be done before or after brushing your teeth, but it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Anti-cavity rinses with fluoride help protect tooth enamel. Also, the dentist may prescribe special mouthwashes for patients after periodontal surgery.

Gingivitis and Plaque Mouthwash

Anti-gingivitis, plaque, antibacterial, or chemotherapy mouthwashes reduce bacteria and stop the bacteria that cause gingivitis.

Can mouthwash help with bad breath?

Medicated mouthwashes can help treat bad breath, but it's best to consult a dentist to determine the cause of the bad breath.

In what order should I brush my teeth 

The order in which you brush, floss, and rinse your teeth doesn't matter. If only you did it correctly and with the use of quality tools. Be sure to check if your mouthwash is approved by your country's Dental Association. 

At what age can children use fluoride rinses? 

Mouthwashes containing fluoride are not recommended for children under 6 years of age as they may swallow the mouthwash. Always check the label for age warnings and consult your dentist about this.

Proper oral care is the basis for the prevention of caries and periodontal disease. One of the most important reasons for the development of these pathologies – plaque and microorganisms that hide in it. To avoid this, dentists recommend professional cleaning every six months:

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