Blog Post

9 Mouthwash Myths Debunked

Dr Alex Silman • Mar 20, 2020
Mouthwash seems like a convenient way to optimize your oral health. You just need to swish and spit it out, and your mouth feels clean. But would your dentist approve? Learn how to use mouthwash appropriately by familiarizing yourself with the myths and facts about the product.

Myth 1: All Types of Mouthwash are Equally Effective

If you read the labels on mouthwash bottles, you probably know that some indicate that they work on cavities. Others say that they reduce gingivitis or whiten teeth. Are these claims just marketing hype?

There are two types of mouthwash. Cosmetic mouthwash can leave an agreeable taste in your mouth, but it doesn’t combat the bacteria that cause bad breath. It also doesn’t have ingredients to reduce tooth decay or address gingivitis and plaque.

Therapeutic mouthwash has compounds that improve your oral health. Therapeutic mouthwash may also contain ingredients that whiten teeth. Some are available by prescription only. However, you can buy many types of therapeutic mouthwash over the counter

Myth 2: You Can’t Use Mouthwash Too Often

If mouthwash gives you fresh breath and makes your teeth feel clean, you might be tempted to use it throughout the day. However, some types of mouthwash shouldn’t be overused.

Products that contain alcohol can harm your oral health. Alcohol is drying. A dry mouth is one of the leading causes of bad breath. Alcohol can make your mouth crack, bleed or swell. Overuse can lead to sensitivity or discomfort.

Alcohol-free formulas are an excellent alternative. But some ingredients can stain your teeth temporarily if you use the mouthwash too much.

You should be careful when using mouthwash that contains fluoride. Too much fluoride can be harmful to your health. You shouldn’t swallow fluoride-containing mouthwash. Avoid giving mouthwash to children younger than age 6. They may not be able to avoid swallowing it.

Myth 3: Mouthwash Kills Only Bad Bacteria

While it’s true that some types of mouthwash contain ingredients that kill bacteria, not all mouth rinses combat germs. Moreover, the ones that do can wipe out the friendly bacteria that balance out your oral ecosystem.

Alcohol-containing mouthwash may not even kill bacteria. Many cosmetic mouthwash products have alcohol concentrations that are too low to destroy microbes.

Myth 4: Mouthwash Is the Cure for Bad Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is usually caused by inadequate dental hygiene, mouth infections, abscesses, medications, dryness or health problems. Cosmetic mouthwash can temporarily mask bad breath, but it doesn’t take care of the problem at its source.

Some types of therapeutic mouthwash have ingredients that remedy the cause of bad breath. But you should practice proper oral hygiene to prevent bad breath.

Some ways to improve halitosis include:
• Quitting smoking
• Flossing frequently
• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day
• Avoiding strong-flavored foods, such as onions and garlic

If you’ve tried these methods and still have bad breath, talk to your dentist about using a mouthwash that can address your specific condition.

Myth 5: You Don’t Have to Floss if You Use Mouthwash

A liquid rinse gets into the cracks and crevices between teeth. It can remove plaque and buildup from those areas better than brushing alone can.

But nothing replaces a good flossing. Flossing loosens deposits between teeth and removes plaque from hard-to-reach areas. It also stimulates the gums, promoting circulation and healing.

If you have food deposits stuck between your teeth, mouthwash can cover up the stink that they emit. However, removing them with floss can eliminate the foul odors completely.

Myth 6: You’ll Know Mouthwash Is Working if it Burns

Have you ever challenged yourself to hold a swig of mouthwash in until it burns like crazy? That intense tingle doesn’t mean that the mouthwash is working effectively. It usually indicates that the liquid contains ingredients that could irritate your mouth, such as certain essential oils, alcohol or peroxide.

If you avoid mouthwash because it’s uncomfortable to use, ask your dentist to recommend a product that’s gentle but effective.

Myth 7: You Don’t Need to Brush if You Use Mouthwash

If you’re traveling or trying to minimize your morning routine, you might be tempted to replace your brushing regimen with a capful of mouthwash. Mouthwash alone isn’t enough to maintain good oral health.

Although rinsing with anything, even water, can remove food debris and bacteria, you should still brush your teeth about twice a day to loosen stubborn deposits and plaque.

If you’ve recently had oral surgery, your dentist might advise you to replace brushing with mouthwash. But that’s only temporary. Once you’ve fully recovered, you should make sure to brush every day.

Myth 8: Fluoride Rinses Are for Kids Only

Acids from the things that you eat and drink demineralize the teeth, causing the enamel layer to deteriorate. Fluoride helps to fortify the enamel.

Children’s primary and permanent teeth come in between the ages of 6 months to 16 years. During this time, fluoride intake can strengthen them.

Therefore, many dentists recommend that kids use fluoride mouthwash once they’re able to spit it out without swallowing it. Parents may also choose to have a dentist give fluoride treatments to children during routine cleanings and exams.

But adults can benefit from fluoride too. Fluoride can prevent cavities from worsening because it interrupts the production of acid. Acid normally occurs as a byproduct of the process in which bacteria in your mouth break down sugars.

Myth 9: You Don’t Have to Check With Your Dentist Before Using Mouthwash

Mouthwash is available over the counter. It’s not illegal to purchase it without the recommendation of a dental professional. However, it’s a good idea to check with your dentist before altering your oral hygiene regimen.

You might get some insight into a product that’s even more effective than the one that you were planning on using. You’ll also learn about potential disadvantages or complications. Plus, a dentist can prescribe a preparation that’s more effective for your issues than an over-the-counter treatment.
Share by: