1. Wash Away Bacteria
An antibacterial or antiseptic mouthwash can help to remove bacteria from your teeth, tongue, and gums, including bacteria that can cause gingivitis if it's allowed to build up over time. Although bad breath can have a number of causes, antibacterial mouthwash can help if bacteria is to blame. Most mouthwashes on the market have antibacterial and antiseptic ingredients and will say so clearly on the label.
2. Fight Cavities With Fluoride
If you're cavity-prone, or if your municipal water supply doesn't contain adequate fluoride protection, mouthwashes containing fluoride are a good way to get the dental protection that you need. Fluoride actually hardens the tooth's outer surface, making it more difficult for bacteria to penetrate. However, when it comes to fluoride, there can be too much of a good thing. Check with your dentist about fluoride, because too much can result in discoloration of the teeth, damage to tooth enamel and other health problems.
3. It's Only Natural
Natural mouthwashes contain no alcohol, and they're often sugar-free. Some may use baking soda, natural calcium or silica, which act as natural abrasives to help keep the teeth clean and remove stains; witch hazel, which acts as an astringent; or soothing ingredients such as aloe vera. Flavoring is usually provided in the form of essential oils and natural flavorings such as pure peppermint oil, cinnamon oil or ginger. Natural mouthwashes are available both with and without fluoride.
4. A Little Bit of Everything
Some mouthwashes have a combination of ingredients. They may have fluoride in addition to antibacterial agents that will prevent tooth decay and freshen the breath. Some mouthwashes contain zinc, which may help people with more severe breath problems, and some products are marketed specifically to reduce bad breath caused by smoking. Mouthwash is available in nearly every flavor you can think of, including the old standards mint and cinnamon, and bubblegum for kids, but also flavors such as citrus, licorice, carrot, chocolate and tropical fruit flavors.
5. For a Healthy Mouth, Brush and Floss First
Although mouthwash may be of some benefit in preventing cavities, removing bacteria and freshening breath; brushing and flossing are still the first lines of defense. Mouthwash should be used only after the teeth are brushed and flossed, and will help to rinse away bacteria loosed by brushing and flossing. It should be used as directed on the label, but it can be more effective if you swish the mouthwash around your mouth with as much force as you can muster, using your lips, tongue and cheeks. Most mouthwash manufacturers recommend that you rinse for at least 30 seconds, although fluoride mouthwashes should be kept in the mouth for a full minute. Mouthwash should never be swallowed, even if it tastes good.
