Types of Mouthwash: Find the One That Works for You

One of the key things you'll need to know when considering which type of mouthwash to use for your oral care routine is the differences between them.

Know the Different Types of Mouthwash

A mouthwash freshens your breath, but it doesn't clean your teeth.  Mouthwashes are not a replacement for a regular routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing, although they can help wash away excess food particles in your mouth. A standard over-the-counter mouthwash contains breath-freshening ingredients such as mint flavoring, but it doesn’t contain fluoride unless the label says so.

Alcohol Mouthwash

Some people consider using a mouthwash as part of their daily oral care routine, but are discouraged by the alcohol content. For some of these people, rinsing for the recommended length of time with an alcohol-containing product (many mouthwashes are about 20 percent alcohol) is uncomfortable. Others are worried about the fact that the 20 percent alcohol content is enough to cause illness in children or teens who experiment by drinking mouthwash. Also, some recovering alcoholics avoid mouthwash because the alcohol content has been shown to trigger a relapse.

Alcohol-Free Mouthwash

But alternatives are available. You can find alcohol-free mouthwash that provides similar oral health benefits to a typical alcohol-containing product. Consider a mouthwash with CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride). This ingredient is found in many health care products. CPC has been shown to be safe and effective. In a mouth rinse, it binds to the surface of germs and causes them to burst, which helps reduce their buildup on the teeth.

Fluoride Rinse

A fluoride mouth rinse doesn't remove plaque, it works by protecting your tooth from acids produced by the bacterial plaque, and it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. The fluoride in a fluoride rinse incorporates into the enamel coating of your teeth, and  it can help protect against cavities in people who are susceptible.

What You Need to Remember

Remember, a mouthwash or a fluoride mouth rinse should be used after you finish your tooth brushing and flossing routine. Also, keep in mind that  mouthwashes or mouth rinses are not recommended for children younger than 6 years old, because kids that age may be inclined to swallow the rinses rather than spit them out.

What causes periodontal or gum disease?

Plaque bacteria is the primary cause of gum disease, using an electric toothbrush is the best way to combat plaque buildup and maintain healthy teeth and gums. However, other factors can contribute to periodontal disease. These include:

• Hormonal changes with pregnancy, puberty, menopause, makes gums more sensitive and easier to develop gingivitis. 
• Illnesses as cancer, HIV, or diabetes that interfere greatly with the immune system puts people at a higher risk of developing infections such as cavities and periodontal disease. 
• Medications can affect oral health. Some lessen the amount of saliva your mouth produces which acts as a protectant for your teeth and gums. Other drugs can cause abnormal growth of gum tissue. 
• Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to numerous oral problems but ultimately make it harder for gum tissue to repair itself. 
• Poor oral hygiene such as inconsistent brushing or flossing 
• Family history or gum or dental disease can be a contributing factor as well.