While regularly visiting your dentist, flossing, and brushing your teeth keep your teeth healthy, using mouthwash can go further in improving your dental health. Incorporating mouthwash into your daily routine has many advantages, as it can kill germs that have been left after brushing and flossing. Here's a list of some of the benefits of using mouthwash.

How Using Mouthwash Benefits Dental Health

1. Prevent Cavities

Cavities happen when acids in the mouth wear down the enamel of your teeth and leave holes that need to be repaired by a dentist. Though brushing and flossing prevent cavities, using a fluoride mouthwash will help even more, as fluoride strengthens enamel and can slow the development of cavities. 

2. Diminish Plaque

Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, which produces acid that harms your tooth enamel. There are special mouthwashes that help reduce plaque buildup, and incorporating them into your dental routine will help protect your teeth.  

3. Clear Particles While Killing Bacteria

Brushing and flossing don't get rid of all the particles between your teeth, so swilling mouthwash after brushing can get rid of them while killing bacteria that is left. Mouthwash can also be used after a meal to clear away any food particles and prevent tooth decay and cavities while leaving your mouth clean and your breath fresh.

4. Fight Gum Disease

Periodontitis, or gum disease, is an infection that damages the soft tissue and, if left untreated, can damage the bones that support your teeth. It happens through plaque buildup that leaves your gums swollen, tender, and red. While your dentist can help treat gum diseases, it's best to take preventative measures, like using an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup, which in turn can prevent gum disease.

If you need help managing your dental health, visit Springville Family Dental Center in Springville, AL. This full-time dental office has been serving the community since 1989 and employs highly trained dentists and dental assistants who have the experience to treat the whole family's dental needs. They offer general and cosmetic dentistry, from cleanings and dentures to veneers and braces. Call them at (205) 467-6147 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for a list of their services.