A solid oral health routine begins with daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Without a consistent oral health regimen, you may begin to experience tooth decay and bacterial infections. Few patients ask the Wonder West Orthodontics team about different mouthwash options, so we’ve put together a list to help you decide which oral rinse would be best for you.
How to Choose a Mouth Wash
We recommend choosing a mouthwash based on the conditions that are treated.
Gum Health
Antiseptic mouthwashes reduce large amounts of bacteria on and near the gum line and generally help to decrease your chances of developing gingivitis. The key ingredients of antiseptic mouthwashes are antibacterial and antimicrobial items. Antiseptic mouthwash is a preferable option if you are concerned about the general gum health of your mouth.
Fluoride
Fluoride is a great tool for preventive tooth decay treatment. It prevents tooth decay and is great for oral health in general because it kills germs that can live in your mouth. Fluoride also builds stronger teeth. If you’re a bottled water drinker, we may recommend that you purchase a simple fluoride rinse to use after brushing. This will ensure that your teeth develop the level of strength they need.
Bad Breath
Generally, any mouthwash will combat bad breath, but some are especially designed to do so. Fluoride mouthwash can be used to fight any bad breath issues you may be facing. It’s designed to combat any bacteria that might be building up in your mouth. Most mouthwashes will help eliminate bad breath, but some are specifically designed to address this difficult problem. If you feel as though this might be turning into a chronic problem, please contact us to discuss other options that would be effective for treating your symptoms.
Canadian Dental Association (CDA) Approval
The CDA reviews all mouth rinses for safety measures and to prove effectiveness. That’s why we recommend opting for products that are CDA approved, to ensure you aren’t exposing your teeth to harmful chemicals. Any mouthwash approved by the CDA has met strict guidelines according to whether the manufacturer’s claims are supported with scientific evidence. If you’re looking for a quality mouthwash, look for one that has the CDA seal of acceptance to ensure you have a great rinse for your mouth.
Choose Wonder West Orthodontics for Your Orthodontic Needs
When you’re trying to decide which mouthwash to pick, contact our London, ON office or ask your orthodontist during your next appointment. If you experience a burning sensation in the soft tissues of your mouth, be sure to discontinue use immediately. Avoid letting children under age six use a mouth rinse, and be sure to keep all mouthwashes out of the reach of children, because they contain alcohol and other substances that could be harmful.