Oral Hygiene Dates Back to Ancient Times
When Was Mouthwash Invented?
Mouthwashes for Special Needs
The Bottom Line with Mouthwash
Oral Hygiene Dates Back to Ancient Times
Anthropologic evidence suggests that many ancient cultures practiced regular oral hygiene. In fact, researchers have found recipes for teeth-cleaning and breath-freshening preparations that date to ancient Egyptian, Chinese, Greek, and Roman cultures. The ingredients have included materials such as charcoal, fruit and dried flowers, but there's no credible evidence about effectiveness of these products.
When Was Mouthwash Invented?
Mouthwash was developed in the late 1800s. Oral care products as we know them first appeared on the scene when toothpaste was developed in the 1800s. Mouthwash was first mass-produced commercially in the late 1800s. Most of the early brands of mouthwash contained alcohol to stabilize the formula, but today alternative products provide germ-killing properties without needing alcohol stabilization, such as cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC). CPC is found in many health care products; the germ fighting ability depends upon the formula, with some products being effective for killing germs that cause both plaque and gingivitis.
Mouthwashes for Special Needs
Today, you can also find mouthwashes for unique needs, such as sensitive mouths or braces, and for those who prefer natural products. In fact, the variety of mouthwashes and rinses available has increased dramatically in the past few decades. But the scientific evidence for their effectiveness remains limited to improving breath and preventing plaque buildup.
The Bottom Line with Mouthwash
It's essential to remember that no mouthwash is a replacement for a regular oral care routine of twice-daily brushing and daily flossing. So even if your dental professional recommends or prescribes a mouthwash, you still need to follow your complete oral care routine to maintain good dental health.