Mouthwash doesn’t just leave your breath minty and fresh. It also has a number of other health benefits. At Stellar Kids Dentistry in Mukilteo, Mill Creek, and Everett, Washington, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care for your whole family. That’s why our dentists recommend using mouthwash regularly.
Here are a few ways mouthwash can improve your whole family’s oral health:
Prevent cavities
One of the most important benefits of mouthwash is that it helps prevent cavities. Simply rinsing your mouth out before and after brushing and flossing helps remove leftover food particles and other bacteria. By using mouthwash, your family is taking the extra step of freshening their breath and protecting their teeth with fluoride.
Treat and prevent gum disease
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is an infection of the gums. It causes redness, inflammation, and bleeding in its early stages. Over time, however, gum disease can eat away at your tooth-supporting bone and tissue. This potentially serious infection develops from plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that clings to your teeth and gums.
Mouthwash helps rinse away the food debris and bacteria that cause plaque buildup. It can prevent gum disease and treat the infection in its early stages.
Protect oral health during pregnancy
Gum disease is especially dangerous during pregnancy. The plaque and bacteria that causes periodontal disease can infiltrate your bloodstream and cause widespread inflammation. If you’re pregnant, this inflammation raises your risk of early labor and premature delivery. Using mouthwash regularly throughout your pregnancy helps protect against gum disease.
Freshen bad breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common problem in people of all ages. Pungent foods, like garlic and onions, can leave your family’s breath with a sour smell. Instead of masking bad breath with chewing gum or mints, use mouthwash to completely eliminate any funky mouth odors.
Choosing the right mouthwash
Mouthwash is recommended for children between the ages of 6 and 13. There should always be an adult present when your child rinses with mouthwash to ensure they’re using it properly. If your child is under the age of 6, they should only use mouthwash under the guidance of their Stellar Kids Dentistry dentist.
When considering what the best mouthwash is for your family, always look out for:
- An American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval
- Fluoride
- Low alcohol content
- Antimicrobial properties
Fluoride is a natural mineral in your bones that protects and strengthens tooth enamel. Enamel protects your teeth from decay and damage. It also keeps your family’s teeth white and strong. Mouthwashes with fluoride can help prevent cavities in children and adults.
How often should you use mouthwash?
Mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. However, using mouthwash twice a day, after your little one brushes and flosses, can have numerous positive effects on their oral health.
When considering how much mouthwash to use, follow the directions on the bottle. Most companies provide a cap that doubles as a cup.
If your child suffers from dry mouth, or low saliva production, it’s important to choose an alcohol-free mouthwash. Alcohol can worsen dry mouth, which raises your child’s risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
To find out which mouthwash is right for your family, call Stellar Kids Dentistry or schedule an appointment online now!