Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a chemical solution that can help maintain oral hygiene in addition to brushing and flossing. In general, however, it is not considered necessary. Mouthwashes containing alcohol are now considered to be less effective.

What is mouthwash?

Mouthwash is a chemical solution designed to improve oral care. Many mouthwash manufacturers advertise that antiseptics and anti-plaque solutions kill bacteria that cause tooth holes, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and bad breath.

A preventively applied mouthwash should protect against tooth decay with the help of fluorides. However, it is a generally accepted fact that using mouthwash does not eliminate the need to brush your teeth or floss. Dentists and researchers believe that in most cases, the use of toothbrushes and floss will do just fine.

Even if many consider non-alcoholic mouthwash to be an effective additional care product. The first use of mouthwash dates back to 2700 years BC. back and was part of Ayurveda and original Chinese medicine.

Shapes, types & types

There are a number of different types of Mouthwashesthat can have different functions and benefits. There are mouthwashes with fluorides, antiseptic mouthwashes, cosmetic mouthwashes, natural mouthwashes and mouthwashes with complete care.

Fluoride mouthwash: It contains sodium fluoride, which strengthens the teeth and offers additional protection against tooth decay. However, there is already enough of these ingredients in [[toothpaste]. Antiseptic mouthwash: This solution contains chlorhexidine gluconate. It inhibits the development of bacteria and is very useful for people with a mouth infection or bad breath.

Excessive use can stain teeth. Cosmetic mouthwash: It usually has no protective ingredients and is only intended to cover up bad breath. Natural mouthwash: Without additives, usually only a light salt solution. Complete care mouthwash: is a combination of sodium fluoride and chlorhexidine gluconate.

Structure, composition & function

Any commercial Mouthwash-Brand has its own recipe. The active ingredients are usually: alcohol, chlorhexidine gluconate, cetylpyridinium chloride, hexetidine, benzoic acid, methyl salicylate, benzalkonium chloride, methyl hydroxybenzoate, hydrogen peroxide, domiphen bromide, and in some cases fluorides, enzymes, calcium.

The mouthwash can also have essential oils and antibacterial contents such as phenol, thymol, eugenol, 1,8-cineol, menthol. In the further water, sweeteners such as sorbitol, sucralose, saccharin and xylitol. Studies comparing the effectiveness of different mouthwashes sometimes contradict each other. The alcohol content in some brands is only increased for taste reasons. So that the solution gets even more "bite". Here it can happen that an alcohol test will be positive shortly after use.

Since alcohol has a drying effect, it can impair the effectiveness of the mouthwash and have a negative effect on the formation of bacteria. Depending on the manufacturer, the solution is poured into the oral cavity undiluted or diluted with water. As a measure, we often give the top of the bottle. It doesn't take more than a small sip. The liquid should then be rinsed vigorously all over the mouth for 30 seconds. Then rinse your mouth well with water.

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Medical & health benefits

Mouthwash is not an essential part of daily oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth with a toothbrush and using the tooth side regularly is much more important for healthy teeth and gums.

However, some dentists see mouthwash as a good additional measure. You can include mouthwash in your daily routine: brushing your teeth with a fluoride-containing toothpaste; Use of dental floss; then mouthwash. In addition, sugar consumption should be kept low and the dentist should be visited regularly (every 6 months). If there is any uncertainty about the right type of mouthwash, the dentist can be asked.

Usually he will recommend using a solution without alcohol. In addition, the doctor will be able to help identify the causes of the bad breath and treat them directly. Many very acidic mouthwashes can cause heartburn in sensitive people. Solutions containing alcohol are repeatedly associated with the development of esophageal cancer. However, there is no clear evidence from studies for this.