There are a few things we wouldn’t do to achieve fresh breath.
From mints to mouthwash, the options and opinions about how to smell nice and have a healthy smile can seem overwhelming!
Many people prefer mouthwash for its quick-acting capabilities and plaque control mechanisms but are unsure if it should be used before or after brushing and flossing to receive the greatest results.
So, in this article, we’re going to dive into the specifics of if you should use mouthwash before or after brushing, as recommended by dental professionals.
Also, we’ll explore the different mouthwash options and their most important ingredients. Ultimately, we want to help you find the right mouthwash routine for your brushing regime.
Let’s get started!
The Ideal Order
The recommendation by major dental organizations, such as the American Dental Association and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is up to your personal preference!
Whichever order enables you to use mouthwash with ease is the right one to follow.
It is important to note that these organizations do suggest looking at the label on the mouthwash itself for directions, as each brand has their own formula that might impact the preferred brush, floss, and rinse order.
Interestingly, the Mayo Clinic recommends using mouthwash after brushing and flossing your teeth.
Brushing and flossing can reduce or loosen the plaque on gums and around teeth, which might be completely removed by swishing with mouthwash.
In contrast to this recommendation, a scientific study by Machado and colleagues suggested that using fluoridated mouth rinse prior to brushing can reduce enamel erosion.
Dr. Anjum Chaudhary, MDS, says, “Adding 'mouthwashes' to your daily routine would likely benefit the majority of individuals, and using antimicrobial mouthwashes over the fluoridated mouth rinse at least once a day after brushing and flossing is more beneficial.” This is because clinical studies have demonstrated that antimicrobial mouthwashes can prevent gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums brought on by plaque buildup along the gum line.
Understanding Mouthwash
Next, we’ll walk you through the ingredients of mouthwash that work together seamlessly to clean the mouth and freshen breath.
Mouthwashes can help alleviate bad breath (halitosis) when used in conjunction with a schedule of thorough tongue cleaning, tooth brushing, and flossing. A mouthwash will be considered effective if it has one or both of the following properties: mouthwashes that neutralize volatile sulfur compounds and mouthwashes that fight bacteria.
Traditional mouthwash typically consists of a solvent (water), alcohol, fluoride, antimicrobial agents, and astringent salts, and surfactants.
Beyond these ingredients, you can find flavoring and coloring agents to improve the overall experience of using mouthwash.
Alcohol is included in mouthwash to kill bacteria that can harbor in the mouth, the deposits of which can cause cavities.
As another measure of cavity reduction, fluoride is usually present in mouthwash. Additionally, antimicrobial agents, such as chlorhexidine, further reduce bacterial overgrowth in the mouth.
Further, to address gum inflammation, mouthwash usually includes astringent salts, like zinc chloride, which will control bad breath and calm your gums down.
All of these ingredients co-contribute to the overall balance and health of your mouth!
Ultimately, choosing the right mouthwash is highly specific to your dental needs and wants.
First and foremost, ask your provider what they recommend using to improve your dental concerns or to maintain your smile.
If they give you several options, you can feel confident choosing one solely based on flavor or any other factor!
However, for those without a dental provider, you should look for mouthwashes that satisfy the above ingredient list.
Finding The Right Mouthwash For You
If you've ever wished that your mints had dental benefits, you might want to consider our Restore Mouthwash Tablets instead. These tablets are non-toxic, unlike your traditional mouthwash, and are free from fluoride, SLS, and all other toxic ingredients. They work as well as traditional mouthwash.
These hydroxyapatite mouthwash tablets activate when colliding with your saliva, creating a burst of either fresh mint, energizing green tea, or soothing lemongrass flavor.
Not only does this mouthwash soothe irritated gums and assists with the remineralization of teeth, it also is infused with probiotics to help your oral microbiome flourish.
When making the final decision on your mouthwash brand and regime, you should rely on personal preferences and accessibility.
There is no “first place” for dental hygiene, so perform the mouth care ritual that you feel most comfortable with.
Remember, mouthwash is not an appropriate substitute for brushing and flossing, so use it as a complementary step to your original routine. Take care!