You may wonder if it is necessary for you to use mouthwash. You brush your teeth, and floss them too. Do you need mouthwash as well? Mouthwash is a great addition for your overall dental health. There are several benefits from using mouthwash.
Helps Clean the Mouth
Though a toothbrush and floss are the main cleaners of teeth and gums, mouthwash can do a lot too. Since it is a liquid, mouthwash easily reaches places that a toothbrush and floss may have missed.
Fights Bacteria
Mouth bacteria grows and creates plaque, which can harden to tartar. Mouthwash contains antimicrobial agents that fight this bacteria, reducing the plaque and tartar.
Protects Gums
The antimicrobial agents in mouthwash not only protect your teeth, but your gums as well. When plaque spreads under the gum line it causes gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. By fighting plaque, mouthwash prevents gingivitis.
Combats Bad Breath
Mouthwash fights bad breath on several levels. The antimicrobial agents work against the bacteria that causes bad breath. The swishing motion we use with mouthwash dislodges food particles where these bacteria gather. And the astringent salts and odor neutralizers in mouthwash mask and inactivate odors.
Strengthens Teeth
Mouthwash contains fluoride, which reduces tooth decay by encouraging enamel formation. Regularly using mouthwash helps teeth become stronger and more resistant against decay.