Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Mouthwash
Active Ingredients
Check the label for the active ingredients in the mouthwash. Look for ingredients like fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay, or essential oils like menthol or eucalyptol, which provide antibacterial properties. Different mouthwashes target specific oral issues, so choose one that suits your needs, such as fighting bad breath or reducing plaque buildup.
Alcohol Content
Consider the alcohol content in the mouthwash. While alcohol-based mouthwashes can effectively kill bacteria, they may cause dryness or irritation for some individuals. If you have sensitive gums or dry mouth, opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash.
ADA Seal of Approval
Look for mouthwashes that have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. This seal ensures that the product has undergone rigorous testing and meets the ADA's standards for safety and effectiveness.
Flavor and Taste
Choose a mouthwash with a flavor that you enjoy. This will make your oral care routine more pleasant and encourage regular use. Popular flavors include mint, citrus, and cinnamon, but there are also unflavored options available.
Special Considerations
If you have specific oral health concerns, such as gum disease or sensitive teeth, look for mouthwashes designed to address those issues. Some mouthwashes target tartar control, enamel strengthening, or provide extra protection for sensitive gums. Consult with your dentist for personalized recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is using mouthwash everyday good?
Using mouthwash every day may not be ideal as some mouthwashes contain harsh ingredients that can be harmful if used excessively. Alcohol-containing mouthwashes, in particular, can lead to dryness in the mouth and an increased risk of cavities. It is generally recommended to use mouthwash less than twice a day to avoid potential negative effects.
2. What does mouthwash do for you?
Mouthwash serves several purposes, including freshening bad breath, reducing plaque and gingivitis, fighting tooth decay, and preventing cavities. Some mouthwashes with fluoride can even help remineralize teeth. Using mouthwash can significantly improve your oral health and leave you with a refreshing feeling after rinsing.
3. Is it OK to swallow saliva after using mouthwash?
It is generally fine to swallow your saliva after using mouthwash, as long as you have spat out most of the product. However, it is advisable to rinse with water afterward, especially if you have used a particularly strong mouthwash.
4. Do you rinse after using mouthwash?
Dentists usually recommend not rinsing your mouth with water immediately after using mouthwash. The mouthwash continues to work even after spitting it out, so rinsing with water dilutes the cleaning and strengthening benefits. It is best to wait for some time before rinsing with water.
5. When should you not use mouthwash?
Avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing your teeth, as it can wash away the concentrated fluoride from the toothpaste on your teeth. It is best to use mouthwash at a separate time from brushing to maximize its benefits.
6. How often should you use mouthwash?
Using mouthwash up to twice a day is generally advised. Using mouthwash more frequently, especially if it is alcohol-based, can potentially harm the soft tissues of the mouth and cause dryness. Limiting use to twice a day helps maintain a balance between the benefits and any potential risks.
7. Are you supposed to drink mouthwash or spit it out?
Mouthwash should not be ingested, so it is important to spit it out after swishing it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Drinking mouthwash will not provide its intended benefits and may be harmful if consumed. Gargling and spitting is the recommended method of using mouthwash.
Editor's Notes
During our mouthwash research, we found 26 mouthwash products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,373,006 customer reviews through our big data system to write the mouthwashes list. We found that most customers choose mouthwashes with an average price of $16.24.
The mouthwashes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of mouthwashes, including Listerine, Colgate, TheraBreath, ACT, Crest. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Elisa Drew is a really professional copywriter specializing in baby products with five years of experience working as a pediatrician once. She has published a series of baby books purchased by over thirty thousand people in the United States.