Brushing and flossing daily are both essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Your dentist may also recommend that you use mouthwash, or oral rinse, as it can clean hard-to-reach crevices. Certain types of mouthwash can fight plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, and tooth decay. Here are a few tips on the correct use of mouthwash in your dental care routine. 

How to Use Mouthwash Properly

1. Add to Brushing and Flossing

Mouthwash isn't intended to be a substitute for brushing and flossing. Your dentist is likely to advise you to brush at least twice a day, floss daily and use mouthwash, according to the product recommendations. Most brands suggest rinsing twice a day. As for the order of use, the American Dental Association doesn't list an official one. However, many products recommend flossing first, then brushing, followed by mouthwash.  

2. Choose the Right Type

Many different kinds of mouthwash are available in stores. Many are antiseptic, containing bacteria-killing ingredients like alcohol, menthol, and eucalyptol. Other types include fluoride to strengthen enamel or hydrogen peroxide for a whitening effect. Cosmetic mouthwashes only freshen bad breath. Natural mouthwashes are alcohol- and fluoride-free, and made with essential oils and herbs. Not every mouthwash on the shelf may be right for you. For instance, alcohol can cause dry mouth, while some formulations may cause pain to sensitive teeth. Make sure to consult your dentist and look for an option with the ADA seal on the label.

3. Swish, Then Spit

Once you've found the right mouthwash for your needs, pour the amount listed in the instructions into an included cap or your own cup. Empty the cup into your mouth, then swish for 30 to 60 seconds. While swishing, tip your head back and gargle for a few moments. When you're finished, spit out the mouthwash into the sink. Do not attempt to save it for reuse and don't rinse your mouth with water. Hold off on eating and drinking for at least half an hour, to allow the mouthwash ingredients to take full effect.

For more tips on your oral hygiene routine, trust the team at Stephanie ML Wong, DMD, Inc. This offices provides quality dental services to patients in Honolulu, HI and surrounding areas. The practice was awarded Best Dentist by Honolulu Magazine for their exceptional patient care, affordable prices and use of cutting-edge tools to fight gum disease. They offer routine cleanings, cosmetic dentistry, implants, veneers, crowns and orthodontic treatment. Call (808) 732-3072 to schedule an appointment or visit their website to learn more about the dentist office.