We are regularly asked by patients ‘should I be using a mouthwash?’
We’re glad they do ask, because patients should consult their dentist or hygienist before using any mouthwash. The fact is, mouthwashes may mask the evidence of dental or other health problems. The most common of these is bad breath (halitosis) – which can be due to a range of causes, including poor oral hygiene, decay, infection or xerostomia (dry mouth).
It’s important that patients have a good understanding of the differences between a mouthwash they may use at home on a daily basis (a “cosmetic” mouthwash) and one prescribed by their dentist or hygienist (a “therapeutic” mouthwash). It’s a good idea to discuss with your dentist or hygienist which mouthwash may be appropriate for your use.
COSMETIC MOUTHWASHES are available over the counter from pharmacies and other retailers. They can give you fresh breath for up to three hours. A cosmetic mouthwash may temporarily mask bad breath but does not always affect the bacterial agent causing that bad breath. The ingredients in these products include odour neutralisers, which work by chemically deactivating the odour-causing compound. Some cosmetic mouthwashes also contain fluoride (to fight cavities), as well as other ingredients that help fight gingivitis and decrease plaque build-up. Nevertheless, over-the-counter products that do contain these additional ingredients have limited ability to combat decay, gingivitis and plaque accumulation.
THERAPEUTIC MOUTHWASHES, which can be prescribed by your dentist or hygienist, contain active ingredients that specifically target decay-causing agents, aid in reducing plaque build-up and help reduce gingivitis in a more controlled and direct way than their cosmetic counterparts. The concentrations of ingredients in therapeutic mouthwashes are usually higher, and often have different ingredients, and therefore require professional advice on use.
It’s crucial to remember that any kind of mouthwash is only useful when used in conjunction with good oral hygiene techniques involving brushing at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily.
Also, it’s recommended that patients opt for alcohol-free mouthwashes as recent research has shown a link between alcohol-containing mouthwashes and the development of oral cancers.
In summary, if you’re concerned about having fresh breath, daily use of a mouthwash may be helpful, but only if used along with daily tooth brushing and flossing, accompanied by regular six-monthly checks with your dentist or hygienist. Therapeutic mouthwashes may be helpful where appropriate and when recommended by your dentist or hygienist for decay, plaque reduction or to assist in the reduction of gum inflammation.
