Mouthwash, friend or foe?

Many patients wonder if using a mouthwash is beneficial. These products are often used to give a more thorough cleaning. depth or for fresher breath.


The first thing to keep in mind is that the use of mouthwashes does not replace should never be used in addition to brushing or flossing, but only as a complement to brushing and flossing.

Therefore, it should be noted that the use of rinses is not essential, however, in certain situations, the use of a dental mouthwash may be beneficial. The choice of mouthwash will vary depending on the state of your oral health, so it should be adapted to your needs:

Chlorhexidine mouthwashes

Contain chlorhexidine gluconate as an antimicrobial at concentrations of between one 0,12% and a 0,2%. This type of mouthwash is highly effective and is frequently used in dentistry for the prevention of infections after dental surgery as well as for the treatment of gingivitis or periodontitis. However, it is not recommended to use this mouthwash for more than 2 weeksas it may cause dental staining.

Mouthwashes for tooth sensitivity

Under normal conditions, when the tooth is healthy, the enamel and gingiva have a protective function, preventing the inner parts of the tooth from being exposed. 

When the cementum or dentine is exposed due to gum recession or enamel wear, external stimuli (cold, heat, sweetness...) can excite the nerve endings causing tooth sensitivity. Nowadays we have a wide variety of specific products to deal with tooth sensitivity.

Fluoride mouthwashes

Caries and plaque control are, among others, some of the main purposes expected from the use of a mouthwash. The use of fluoride rinses after toothbrushing is an increasingly widespread and proven practice. anticaries. Sodium fluoride preparations are used at 0.20 per cent for weekly and seasonal use 0.05 per cent for everyday use.

 

Dr. Alfonso Zambudio, dentist in Vélez&Lozano