Mouthwash

Adding an appropriate mouthwash to your dental hygiene routine can be a simple and effective way to improve your overall dental health. Mouthwash helps reduce plaque, control bad breath, and prevents tooth decay and gum disease. There are many types and brands of mouthwash available over-the-counter to choose from, and some are even prescribed. With all the choices out there, how do you possibly choose one?

It’s important to note that while many of the mouthwashes you find on the shelf at your local drugstore may be advertised for cosmetic purposes, some of them actually contain bacteria fighting substances like fluoride and peroxide. However, if your dentist has told you that you are at risk for tooth decay or gum disease, you will want to use a prescribed mouthwash with stronger bacteria fighting substances.

Benefits of Using Mouthwash

There are two categories that mouthwashes fall into: cosmetic, which temporarily combat bad breath and contain fluoride or peroxide to help manage bacteria, and therapeutic, which contain stronger substances that control or reduce bad breath, gingivitis, plaque, and tooth decay.

Cosmetic mouthwash usually contains fluoride and sometimes peroxide. In liquid form, the rinse can reach all around your teeth, even the nooks and crannies your toothbrush can’t reach. It has been proven that fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, in turn protecting against decay. Fluoride can even reduce miniscule lesions on teeth where a cavity might develop.

Therapeutic mouthwash contains ingredients to control and reduce plaque. Plaque is a sticky substance full of bacteria that sits on the surface of your teeth and other parts of your mouth. Studies have shown that therapeutic mouthwash decreases plaque more significantly than brushing and flossing alone.

Active ingredients in a therapeutic mouthwash may include:

  • Cetylpyridinium chloride to prevent the development of bacteria that cause gum disease
  • Chlorhexidine to treat gingivitis by reducing inflammation, swelling, and bleeding of the gums
  • Essential oils to help prevent cavities by reducing bacteria deep in the gums
  • Fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel, allowing it to be more resistant to tooth decay
  • Peroxide to penetrate the surface layer of a tooth in order to remove unsightly stains

Which mouthwash is right for me?

When perusing the mouthwash aisle at your local drugstore, be sure to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal on the label. This means that the product has not only been evaluated, but proven effective by renowned dental experts. With prescription mouthwash, you must follow your dentist’s directions carefully. Mouthwash benefits most people, but it should not be used for children under six years of age, as they may accidentally swallow the liquid.

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Monday:

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Tuesday:

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Wednesday:

8:30 am-3:00 pm

Thursday:

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What Our Clients Say About Us

    From start to finish, a great experience! Nice clean office. The front desk staff was friendly, on the way in & on the way out. My hygienist was absolutely amazing, she was sweet and gentle, she asked questions, and gave advice. Dr Wanat was professional and let me know what was necessary and didn’t try to have me come in for a bunch of unnecessary work, I was extremely pleased with my visit as a new patient.

    Jamie Rosen

    I am 71 years old and I have been to many different dentists over the years. Dr. Wanat is kind, compassionate and gentle. I would highly recommend him for your dental care. Maria is also kind, compassionate and gentle. They went above and beyond to accommodate my needs. They were a blessing to me!

    Deborah Nixon

    I am a new patient this week. I was pleasantly greeted and all the staff were very friendly. They were all exceptional in explaining my care. Dr. Wanat was also excellent explaining my options for a dental care plan. I had all my x-rays and a cleaning today. I look forward to begin next week starting the plan we have in place.

    Robert Harris

    My husband and I both very happy with this dentist. All of the young ladies that work there are super. They know their job and make you feel special. Dr. Want does not do any procedure that is not needed. He is the best dentist I have ever had!!!

    Anita Gray

    The dental hygienist Amber was very attentive and caring during my initial visit. She was also very proficient with reviewing my x-rays and providing both helpful and practical feedback/recommendations for ways to improve my dental cleaning routine at home. Dr. Wanat was friendly and honest, and he seemed genuinely invested in addressing my concerns. He and Amber also thoroughly explained the plans for my future visits. The office manager was very friendly and accommodating with scheduling as well.

    Jennifer Lassonde