Is Mouthwash Good for your Teeth?

A trip down the dental aisle in your local market can be quite overwhelming with the number of different types of toothpastes and mouthwashes  available.  Some claim to whiten teeth, while others are for preventing tooth decay or fighting plaque.  There are benefits to some mouthwashes.  Lets examine the different types of mouthwashes and their uses.

Fluoride Mouthwash
Mouthwashes with fluoride do have the ability to help reduce tooth decay.  There have been many studies over the years to prove that fluoride can strengthen and reduce the breakdown of tooth enamel thus reducing the possibility of getting a cavity.  Any over-the-counter mouthwash that specifically lists fluoride  as an ingredient can be beneficial when used regularly to help prevent tooth decay.   A specific type of fluoride, called stannous fluoride not only helps keep tooth enamel resistant to decay, but it also has antibacterial properties which help control periodontal disease.

Anti-Bacterial Mouthwash
Periodontal (gum) disease is caused by plaque from bacteria and food that sticks to the teeth.  The bacteria release an acid that breaks down the bone around the teeth and this acid irritates the gums.  Our body responds to this irritation by producing more acids to kill the bacteria, which then causes bone loss and inflamed, infected gums.  Keeping bacteria in the mouth to a minimum is the key to controlling gum disease.  Along with daily thorough brushing and flossing, anti-bacterial mouthwashes can help to lower the amount of bad bacteria in the mouth.  Listerine is an example of an over the counter anti-bacterial mouthwash.  It is now available without alcohol which eliminates the burn feeling.  There are also some very good anti-bacterial mouthwashes available only through a dentist.

Some over the counter mouthwashes claim to be "anti-plaque" but in fact have nothing in them that actually reduces bacteria. They taste good and make your teeth feel smooth, but they don't actually reduce bacteria.

If you are pregnant or have diabetes it is especially important to maintain good oral hygiene. During pregnancy, due to elevated hormone levels, women are more susceptible to developing gum disease so good oral hygiene is vitally important.  People with diabetes are more susceptible to infection due to their compromised immune system, so it is important for them to keep their mouth infection free.  Thorough brushing and flossing along with an anti-bacterial mouthwash can help reduce the harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Teeth Whitening Mouthwash
Unfortunately there is no mouthwash that can actually whiten your teeth.  Manufacturers may add a bit of hydrogen peroxide to the rinse to claim that it whitens teeth, but chances are you will not see any change in the shade of your teeth after using one of these products.  If you are interested in whitening your teeth, you would be better off using a professional product from your dentist.

The bottom line is that mouthwashes are an addition, but not a substitute for thorough brushing, cleaning between your teeth and seeing your dentist regularly.  Certain mouthwashes have their advantages depending on the needs of the individual.  Talk to your dentist about which rinse would be best for you.