Flossing daily and brushing twice a day should be a consistent part of your daily dental care, but another great addition is mouthwash! Although brushing and flossing are very effective in getting between the teeth and gums, mouthwash, as a liquid form, can get even further down. Don’t use it as a replacement but as an additional dental care tool.
Using mouthwash can greatly reduce the risk of getting infections or diseases such as cavities or gingivitis. Mouthwash can assist in your dental protection by:
– Reducing plaque buildup, speed of tartar (hardened plaque),
– Preventing or controlling tooth decay,
– Preventing or reducing gingivitis (early form of gum disease),
and
– Even freshening your breath.
Two different kinds of mouthwashes include cosmetic and therapeutic rinses. Cosmetic mouthwashes can temporarily reduce bad breath, but these don’t reduce your risk of infections. Therapeutic mouthwashes contain active ingredients that help reduce gingivitis, cavities, plaque, and bad breath and sometimes contain fluoride that help prevent tooth decay. Most are available over-the-counter but sometimes need a prescription.
Here at Ridge Park Dental our dental professionals strive to give you the care you need for a better smile. Talk to Dr. Grant Brough about which option is best for you and your teeth. Give our office in Layton, Utah, a call at 801-773-5285 to set up a consultation or appointment today!