If you want to have the healthiest possible teeth and gums, it is important that you develop a daily oral health routine that includes brushing twice daily, flossing once a day and as needed after meals, and using an American Dental Association (ADA) approved mouthwash. Of course, everyone’s routine is slightly different. If you don’t currently use mouthwash, it’s never too late to start. Today, we have some tips for you that will help you choose the right mouthwash to improve your oral health. Invest in a general dentist in Palos Heights.
Which Mouthwash Should You Choose?
There are many types of mouthwash available on the market today, and some are better for specific purposes than others. The most important consideration is choosing a mouthwash that carries the ADA seal of approval. This means that the product’s effectiveness has been evaluated by scientists and dental professionals to ensure it is safe and that it works as advertised. Beyond choosing a mouthwash that is ADA-approved, you can select a product to improve a range of conditions.
If you have any of the following conditions, you can choose a mouthwash designed to treat them:
- Bad Breath (Halitosis) – Having bad breath can certainly be embarrassing, but it can also be a sign of more serious issues like tooth decay or gum disease. Generally speaking, bad breath is caused by an overgrowth of the bacteria and fungi that naturally occur inside your mouth. While these microorganisms are a crucial part of your digestion, using mouthwash can help to keep them in check. A simple scented mouthwash can help cover up bad breath, but we would suggest speaking to your dentist to investigate the root cause of your halitosis.
- Dry Mouth – A persistently dry mouth can allow microorganisms to grow out of control, potentially leading to tooth decay and other issues. If you have dry mouth, we suggest avoiding mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as this can further dry out your mouth. If that doesn’t solve the issue, you can speak to your dentist about other options like prescription rinses that are designed to treat dry mouth, or even artificial saliva for severe cases.
- Gingivitis – As the earliest stage of gum disease, being diagnosed with gingivitis gives you an opportunity to treat it before it progresses. You can choose a mouthwash that contains anti-bacterial or anti-microbial ingredients that will remove excess bacteria from your mouth, giving your gums a chance to heal. If your gingivitis continues to progress, your dentist may recommend a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine, a stronger anti-bacterial ingredient.
- Tooth Sensitivity – If you experience pain when consuming hot or cold foods, or when eating sugary foods, it can be caused by a weakening of the tooth enamel. This exposes the porous dentin underneath, allowing substances to come into contact with the nerves in your teeth. Mouthwashes containing active ingredients like potassium citrate can lessen the pain you feel, while ingredients like stannous fluoride and calcium phosphate can help strengthen tooth enamel. If that doesn’t help, you can speak to your dentist about fluoride treatments and other options to treat sensitivity.
General Dentistry in the area
If you are experiencing any of the issues listed above, choosing the right mouthwash and taking advice from dentists near Evergreen Park could help you. Of course, you don’t have to choose a mouthwash alone; your dentist can give you advice that is specific to your situation and find the root causes of your oral health issues. Those of you who live in the area can get in touch with American Dental and make an appointment to get a checkup and discuss mouthwash and other aspects of your oral health routine. Call us at (773) 897-3218 or schedule an appointment online if you need dental services.