Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist are staples of a quality oral care routine, but you can boost your oral health by adding mouthwash to your mornings. Beyond fresh breath, it offers a host of benefits for your teeth, and with all the varieties, you can find one that suits your dental needs for maximum benefits. 

Why Mouthwash Is Important

When combined with other steps of your oral care routine, mouthwash moderates several issues to help you maintain your dental health between visits to the dentist. Depending on the type of mouthwash you get, it can reduce the number of bacteria that accumulate on your teeth, known as plaque, which reduces your chance of developing tooth decay. Since mouthwash limits plaque buildup, it also slows the rate at which tartar collects on your teeth and gums. Additionally, it alleviates bad breath.

How To Choose the Best One for You

There are a couple of types of mouthwash: cosmetic or therapeutic. If your primary concern is fresher breath, you’ll want to browse cosmetic mouthwashes. These provide temporary daily relief from bad breath, but they don’t target the cause or work to reduce the occurrence of halitosis over time.

To fight bad breath, gingivitis, plaque, and tooth decay, therapeutic mouthwash is the best option. These mouthwashes have added compounds that actively kill bacteria in your mouth and fight tooth decay and gingivitis. Look for ingredients such as cetylpyridinium chloride for bad breath control, essential oils to fight plaque, and fluoride for tooth decay prevention. If you need a whitening boost, use a mouthwash that contains peroxide. For stronger mouthwashes, such as those containing chlorhexidine, you’ll need a prescription from your dentist. 

If you need expert advice on which mouthwash best suits your oral care needs, speak with dentist Lisa Tatum, DDS in Augusta County, VA. With a deep understanding of what it takes to create and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile, this dental office and team will provide you with a high level of oral care in a comfortable setting. From dentures to crowns to implants, her comprehensive general dentistry services will leave you smiling. Browse her services online, and call (540) 943-0973 to schedule an appointment.