How to Get The Best Results Out of Using Mouthwash

MouthwashIf you are wondering how to use mouthwash, do not feel bad, you are not alone. Plenty of people go decades without properly using mouthwash.  Others simply never learn how to properly use it.  Below is some information on using mouthwash to keep your teeth healthy and breath fresh, while also gaining oral health benefits.

Tips For Using Mouthwash

Start out by Consulting With Your Dentist

We will help direct each patient toward the ideal mouthwash for his or her unique mouth. There are antimicrobial, anticavity, fluoridated and other varieties of mouthwash. In fact, the industry even produces highly nuanced mouthwashes that serve unique purposes.

If a patient has oral health challenges, we will help the patient select the variety of mouthwash ideal for his or her unique mouth. As an example, if the patient is recovering from gingivitis or a fungal infection, we might prescribe a specialized mouth rinse.

Use the Proper Amount of Mouthwash

Quantity is one of the top issues when it comes to learning how to use mouthwash in the proper manner. By choosing to use a mouthwash dispenser, the patient does not have to worry about whether he or she is using too much or too little.  This way, the patient will not waste money by using too much or having an insufficient clean when using too little.  The dispenser will pump out just the right amount so the patient can enjoy a thorough clean for the least amount of money.

Some Mouthwashes Should be Diluted

Read the label of the mouthwash.  Some brands have a high concentration and require dilution.  If the label does not direct the user to dilute, do not water it down.  If the patient waters down such a mouthwash, it might detract from its ability to clean the mouth.

How to use Mouthwash: Keep an Eye on the Clock

The patient should swish mouthwash in his or her mouth for about half a minute.  When in doubt, read the label to determine the advised length of time.  Do not use the mouthwash for more than a minute.  Do not swallow it. Spit it back out into the sink.

Mouthwash is not a Replacement for Brushing and Flossing

Do not rely on mouthwash to clean the mouth. It provides more of a superficial clean than flossing and brushing. Even if we prescribe a specialized mouthwash, it will not take the place of flossing and brushing. Thus, the patient must not let the fresh breath provided by the mouthwash fool him or her into thinking it has performed a full clean of the mouth. The patient will only enjoy a truly comprehensive clean after using mouthwash in addition to flossing, brushing and loyally following through with semiannual visits to the dentist.

Read the Container

Take a look at the mouthwash container's instructions.  If this portion of the bottle has any unique directions, follow them down to the very last detail.  When in doubt, always adhere to the manufacturer's directions for safe and effective mouthwash use.  It is worth noting some mouth rinses contain alcohol.  Keep them out of your little one's reach so they are not tempted to drink the mouthwash.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with us, call (703) 745-3227. Our dental office is located in Sterling. Call Titan Dental Care today.

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