To begin, a mouth rinse does not replace your daily oral hygiene care routine of brushing and flossing. It is an adjunctive therapy that can be beneficial for your overall oral hygiene. There are a few different types of mouth rinses: a fluoride rinse, an antibacterial rinse, and a desensitizing rinse. Choose one based on your specific needs, although many combine some of these effects.
A fluoride mouth rinse is used for people who are at greater risk for cavities. The additional exposure to fluoride can help fight cavities by increasing the amount of fluoride on the enamel surfaces of your teeth. Generally, this type of rinse is used when advised by your dentist or hygienist.
There are many different types of antibacterial mouth rinses on the market. They have different active ingredients that use various methods for the same goal – to fight gingivitis. Some of the active ingredients include triclosan, thymol, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), and chlorhexidine gluconate. All have been proven to be effective against fighting bacteria that cause gingivitis. Some people prefer the taste of one type of rinse over another, or like or dislike the “burn” associated with some rinses. Choose an antibacterial rinse that is best for you based on what you prefer.
Desensitizing mouth rinses can be an effective adjunctive therapy for people with very sensitive teeth. These rinses use different active ingredients, including arginine, potassium citrate, potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride, to desensitize the teeth. If you have sensitive teeth, you can use this type of rinse in addition to a sensitive toothpaste, or on its own. Talk to your dentist or hygienist about what would be best for you.
The most important factor when using a mouth rinse, whichever type you use, is to use it correctly. This will ensure you maximize the beneficial effects of the rinse. Read the directions on the bottle and ensure you use the correct amount and rinse for an adequate amount of time. Using a mouth rinse as an additional part of your home care routine can be very beneficial health wise and can leave you feeling fresher!
Contact our office in downtown Edmonton if you have any questions or want to learn more about mouth rinses.
Alia
Dental Hygienist