Brushing and flossing are the two main foundations to maintain good oral hygiene. But mouthwash can be added as a part of a good oral hygiene routine. Thanks to the numerous benefits that a mouthwash offers!
If you have started using a mouthwash, then you may be wondering how you need to incorporate a mouthwash in your daily routine, right! The next big question that might arise before using mouthwash is to use it before or after brushing? Well, don’t overthink about it, let us discuss more on mouthwash and also know what else you can do to boost your oral health!
Benefits of Using a Mouthwash
- Mouthwash is mainly known to freshen your breath. This can happen only when you add it to your daily oral care routine. The additional benefits of using mouthwash are:
- You can reduce plaque and remove the remaining food particles with a mouthwash, if you have missed the brushing as well as flossing part.
- Untreated gum disease can lead to other complications such as tooth loss, gum recession, etc. With a mouthwash, you can help boost all the prevention efforts.
- By using mouthwash, you can help control plaque – a thin bacterial film that builds up on your teeth. If plaque is not removed properly, then it eventually hardens into tartar. So, use a mouthwash to clear it off!
When To Use a Mouthwash? Before or After Brushing!
As the scientific research is limited and many reputable organizations offer different recommendations in regards to using a mouthwash before or after brushing. Let us sneak-peek more into the details.
- According to IDA (Indian Dental Association), a mouthwash when used in conjunction with your daily oral care routines such as tooth brushing, flossing and tongue cleaning, can work wonders in treating bad breath.
- The NHS (National Health Service) on the other hand recommends avoiding mouthwash right after brushing, as this process may wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Hence, the NHS recommends mouthwash at any different time of the day.
- ADA (American Dental Association) states that you may mouthwash either before or after brushing and is completely your personal preference.
What are the Other Ways of Boosting Your Oral Care Routine?
Mouthwash can help enhance your oral care routine, but cannot be considered a substitute for regular brushing or flossing. So:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day at least for two minutes will remove plaque and food particles from your teeth.
- Floss at least once a day to clean between your teeth and also along your gum line.
You can also make further improvements in your daily oral care routine, with these tips:
- Brush your teeth with herbal toothpaste at least two times a day. Make sure that you are brushing for at least two minutes.
- Always eat a well-balanced diet that includes a lot of nutritious rich foods. Limit yourself from beverages such as caffeine, tea or red wine and other products which contain sugar.
- Shift to ideal snack foods such as cheese, non-acidic fruits, vegetables and nuts.
- Opt for a soft-bristle toothbrush that is safe for your teeth and gums.
- Wait for at least 20-30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth. Also, remember to floss every day.
- Ensure that you are visiting your dentist twice a year to maintain your healthy smile.
Conclusion
While mouthwash cannot be considered a replacement for brushing and flossing, it can play an important role in enhancing your oral hygiene. Mouthwash can help remove plaque, freshen your breath, and reduce your risk of gum disease and other cavities. Then why wait? Give it a try by consulting your dentist and finding out the best mouthwash to kickstart your oral hygiene!