How to Choose a Mouthwash That Is Right for You?

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Mouthwash is a valuable part of your daily dental hygiene regimen when combined with brushing, flossing, and using at-home gum disease prevention like Perio Protect Trays® regularly.

 

Woman rinsing her mouth with mouthwash to help preserve a healthy mouth.But, with so many options on the market, how do you choose the mouthwash that is best for your specific needs? 

What Do You Need From a Mouthwash?

When trying to select the right mouthwash, the first thing you should do is consider what you want it to do. 

If your goal is to provide an extra level of clean to your mouth, you may consider a different mouthwash than someone trying to minimize bacteria causing gum disease.

What Mouthwashes Are Recommended by Dr. Fiss?

Finding quality mouthwashes is about more than scanning the dental aisle at your local drugstore.

Only a dentist will be able to guide you to the right mouthwash for your needs.

Dr. Fiss’ Picks:

  • Tooth & Gums Tonic by Dental Herb
      • This alcohol-free oral mouth rinse reduces oral bacteria and is a natural alternative to chlorhexidine. This mouth rinse is ideal for overall periodontal health. It is also beneficial for controlling gum inflammation and bleeding after dental procedures or oral surgery as well as patients with dry mouth and mouth sores. Tooth & Gums Tonic has been shown to help those with chronic halitosis (chronic bad breath). 
  • Oxyfresh® Rinse
    • Oxyfresh® offers a collection of alcohol-free rinses to target various dental concerns.  Oxyfresh has chlorine dioxide which deodorizes and kills bacteria which cause bad breath. Whether you are looking for cavity-fighting or bad breath protection, whether you have sensitive teeth or gums, or whether you have a sensitivity to mint, Oxyfresh® has a rinse that is right for you.
  • Perio Gel® 
    • This gel contains 1.7 percent hydrogen peroxide and is used in partnership with Perio Trays® to promote gum health. The hydrogen peroxide found in Perio Gel® works to penetrate and break down bacterial communities that lead to gum disease , bad breath .The bacteria or biofilm has also been shown to have links to heart disease ,Alzheimer’s and diabetes. Perio Gel® is highly recommended for anyone dealing with  these concerns and wants to improve and maintain their   health.  

What Should I Know About Mouthwash and Bad Breath?

While many people choose mouthwash in part to freshen their breath, it is important to note and highlight that many over-the-counter mouthwashes DO NOT treat the underlying causes of bad breath because they do not destroy the odor-causing molecules.They only try to mask the oder which does not work.

Often, additional testing and more significant treatment provided by Dr. Fiss is needed to accurately treat your halitosis (bad breath).

How Can I Choose the Best Mouthwash?

Choosing the best mouthwash for your needs is a combination of knowledge and research. 

The best way to go about it is to talk to Dr. Fiss about your dental health needs and request a recommendation directly from the pro. He is aware of what you need in a mouthwash and, based on this knowledge, will suggest the best one for you.

Additionally, turning to the recommendations of the American Dental Association is a good way to start down the path to choosing the perfect mouthwash. The ADA reviews each mouthwash and publishes its findings every year, allowing people to get firsthand information to help them choose the mouthwash that is right for them. 

The ADA is committed to assuring the public by emitting a Seal of Approval for those mouthwash products they consider most effective. 

Is Mouthwash Enough for a Healthy Mouth?

While we are all looking for a simple way to ensure a healthy mouth, it is never that easy, and using a mouthwash (even diligently) is not enough to provide this on its own. 

Mouthwash is beneficial, and it is recommended as a part of a more in-depth oral hygiene routine. This routine includes brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, using Perio Protect Trays® to help preserve gum health, watching what you eat and knowing how your choices impact dental health, and visiting Dr. Fiss at least twice a year for checkups and general dental care.

Interested in Learning More?

Dr. Benjamin Fiss is committed to your dental health. If you live in the Chicago area, please give us a call at (312) 642-6631 and schedule a consultation.