A strong oral health routine consists of brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash. People tend to choose mouthwash based on flavor or habit. But did you know there are a number of different mouthwash types that serve different purposes? To help you select the mouthwash best for your oral health needs, the pediatric dentists at Pedodontic Associates in Honolulu, Aiea, and Kahului, HI, offer this guide to mouthwash basics.

Types of Mouthwashes

Fluoride Mouthwash

Mouthwash containing sodium fluoride is often recommended by pediatric dental offices because, according to the American Dental Association, fluoride is proven to help prevent cavities. Fluoride also helps strengthen the enamel coating on your teeth, which makes it especially useful for children and teens as their adult teeth come in. However, consuming too much fluoride can be harmful, so always rinse and spit.  

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Antiseptic mouthwash usually contains alcohol and chlorhexidine gluconate, and is the most common type of mouthwash found at your local supermarket. This type of mouthwash is effective at killing bacteria, controlling infection, and getting rid of halitosis, or bad breath. Antiseptic mouthwash can also reduce plaque build-up on your teeth, but like other types of mouthwash should be used in combination with brushing and flossing.

Natural Mouthwash  

Natural mouthwash can be homemade or store-bought, and often contains salt, baking soda, and essential oils. For those who are not fond of strong tasting antiseptic mouthwashes, this is a healthy alternative that can also kill bacteria, strengthen your teeth, and gums.

Cosmetic Mouthwash

Cosmetic mouthwash uses flavoring and freshening agents to temporarily reduce bad breath. Because no chemical components of the mouthwash kill the bacteria that cause bad breath, its effects are only temporary and there are few other benefits for your oral health. If you would like to avoid cosmetic mouthwash, look for product labels that specifically state they fight bacteria, plaque, and strengthen gums.  

In addition to basic oral hygiene like using mouthwash, kids should see a pediatric dentist twice a year. Make your child’s next appointment at Pedodontic Associates. This dental practice has provided Oahu and Maui with family dental care for more than 25 years. Their experience in detection and preventative care, as well as cosmetic procedures, will give your kids their best smiles. To learn more about their services, visit them online. Call the office nearest you to make an appointment: (808) 487-7933 for Pearlridge, (808) 735-1733 for Kahala, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului.