Brushing your teeth is the first step in cleaning your smile. While it may seem like that’s all there is to do, there are other important parts of a daily dental routine you should follow! These parts include flossing, maintaining routine dental visits, and swishing mouthwash. Mouthwash is a great addition to your daily dental routine, and this blog explains when you should use it.
When to Use a Mouthwash
The main reason for using mouthwash is to get rid of bacteria. Mouthwash typically contains alcohol or fluoride to effectively get rid of bacteria in your mouth. These types of mouthwash can help prevent tooth decay and bad breath. Mouthwash should be used after you brush and floss, so you can get the full benefits of your toothpaste!
Benefits of Using Mouthwash
While most patients choose to floss, brush, and then wait to use mouthwash, there is no wrong way to use it in your daily dental routine. After meals are a great way to incorporate mouthwash into your routine as it can flush out pieces of leftover food and kill bad breath.
Other benefits of mouthwash include:
- Reaching where a toothbrush cannot
- Ingredients that can help prevent gum disease
- Reduced tooth stains
<2>How to Use Mouthwash
Not all mouthwashes are created equal. Due to the different ingredients, it’s best to read the instructions carefully before using it. Typically, you will swish three teaspoons of mouthwash around your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Never swallow your mouthwash. A mouthwash will need some time to work in your mouth after swishing, so don’t rinse after using it either. Once you spit it out, that’s all there is to it! Remember, mouthwash is a great addition to your daily dental routine, but it cannot replace brushing or flossing. Incorporating all three into your daily dental routine is the best way to keep your smile healthy and shining!
Ask Us About Your Dental Hygiene Routine
Dr. Laird enjoys helping patients learn ways they can up their dental hygiene. If you have a question about brushing or using mouthwash, please feel free to reach out. Our team at Ashley Laird, DDS, is always here to help!
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