The Pros and Cons of Mouthwash in Troy, Michigan
Who would argue that it feels refreshing and invigorating to rinse your mouth with a smooth tasting mouthwash? And, many people feel as if they have just done their mouths a great favor when they rinse – especially if the mouthwash had a bit of a “medicinal” hint added to its soothing mint-like flavor.
But unfortunately, many people in Troy Michigan aren’t aware that using mouthwash every day isn’t necessarily the right thing to include in a daily oral hygiene regimen. There is no universal recommendation for using mouthwash. Believe it or not, there are many variables that come into play when determining the inclusion of rinsing with mouthwash into a dental hygiene plan.
The features, benefits, and considerations of using mouthwash
There are a couple hundred different kinds of mouthwash and mouth rinses available in stores throughout Troy. Most of which are accessible over the counter. However, some with more medical benefits (as described below) require a prescription.
In any case, each type of mouthwash and mouth rinse is presented to offer specific benefits – some have actual health benefits and others do not. Those that offer not actual dental benefits are referred to as cosmetic; those that do provide some design of health benefits are known as therapeutic.
Let’s take a closer look at each type of mouthwash or mouth rinse.
Cosmetic types are pleasantly tasting but they have a short-lived effect. They do not contain any bacteria-killing chemicals that actually cause breath to be bad. For this reason, they are categorized as cosmetic.
Therapeutic mouthwashes contain ingredients that actively reduce conditions like plaque, gum inflammation, bad breath, and even cavities. The ADA (American Dental Association) seeks specific ingredients in mouthwash when rating the products to assure they have therapeutic benefits; among these ingredients are chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride as well as peroxide, essential oils, and fluoride.
Those are the ingredients that provide benefits. For example, a mouth rinse with fluoride aids in the prevention of decay due to its capacity to re-mineralize your teeth’s enamel. This is significant if you are prone to getting cavities. Whitening mouthwashes have peroxide that helps in the reduction of staining while lightening your teeth’s color. The essential oils and chlorhexidine are useful in controlling gingivitis and plaque. The other ingredient mentioned above – cetylpyridinium chloride – has been shown to lessen bad breath as shared by the ADA.
Are there any risks to using mouthwash?
Actually, there are. Despite all of its benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind. For example, while in a continuous debate, there is discussion about a link between oral cancer and using mouthwashes that have alcohol. This isn’t strongly announced but it is an issue that remains actively in discussion. Essentially, mouth rinses that contain alcohol are at the center of most warnings and potential problems that can occur from use or over-use.
For more information regarding anything related to your oral health, give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!