Alongside toothpaste and toothbrushes, mouthwash is a staple on the bathroom counter of households everywhere as part of the oral hygiene routine. A quick gargle and swish of the minty flavoured substance, and your mouth is left feeling fresh and clean.But is it really as clean as you think?

Types of mouthwash

Lined on supermarket shelves are a few different types of mouthwashes - antibacterial, antiseptic and cosmetic. The antibacterial and antiseptic fall under the category of therapeutic rinses.

Therapeutic mouthwash

Therapeutic mouthwashes have combined active ingredients to kill the bacteria that causes bad breath, cavities, gingivitis and/or hinder their reproduction. Some of the active ingredients included in a therapeutic wash are:

• Peroxide
• Fluoride
• Essential Oils
• Chlorhexidine
• Cetylpyridinium chloride

Cosmetic mouthwash

Cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily control bad breath, but do not reduce risk of cavities or gum disease - the cosmetic wash will only leave you with a pleasant taste.

So, are you using the right kind of mouthwash and are you using it correctly? When shopping, make sure to read labels carefully and instructions thoroughly.

If you are looking for a mouthwash to serve clinical purposes such as attacking bacteria and plaque, be sure to purchase a therapeutic mouthwash. If you are only concerned about having a fresh taste in your mouth, then a cosmetic rinse is all you need. Happy rinsing!

If you have any concerns regarding mouthwash or the condition of your oral hygiene, contact Kelowna Dental Solutions today. We’d be happy to help!