Dental Hygiene Month - Rinse!

This week in Dental Hygiene Month we are focusing on the third step in the Daily 4: Rinse!

Mouthwash is a great dental hygiene tool that can help to prevent oral health issues like gingivitis. When combined with the powers of flossing and brushing, mouthwash can help to effectively fight against tooth decay and to promote healthy teeth and gums. Using mouthwash with brushing and flossing, can also reduce bacteria, plaque, and prevent gingivitis. Read on to discover. Below are some of the best brands and additional benefits of using mouthwash on a regular basis.

Benefits of Using Mouthwash

• Freshens breath – Mouthwash is a great dental tool because it can help to temporarily reduce bad breath. This powerful rinsing aid helps to kill the bacteria that are associated with bad breath. 
• Prevents plaque build-up – Mouthwash has been known to help keep plaque from building up on your gums, the surface of your teeth, and in-between your teeth. 
• Removes particles – Did you know that mouthwash can be used after you've eaten to help remove food particles? That's right—using mouthwash as part of your daily dental hygiene program can help to ensure that loose food particles are thoroughly removed from your mouth.
• Aid in the prevention of cavities – One of mouthwash's best features is its ability to aid in the prevention of cavities. Mouthwashes that contain fluoride can also help to strengthen your enamel.

Best Brands of Mouthwash

There are several good brands of mouthwash that are available for public purchase. They all come in a variety of flavors and types such as alcohol-free. Below are a few: 

• Closys - is alcohol and flavor free and includes a flavor add in so you can control how intense the flavor is if it all. This brand is available for purchase in our office so you do not have to make a separate trip to the store.
• Listerine -  is one of the top recommended and dentist approved mouthwashes. It is a "total care" product that fights gum disease and tooth decay.
• Rembrandt - is an alcohol-free mouthwash. It contains hydrogen peroxide to help fight plaque bacteria that can cause gingivitis.
• Scope - is a popular basic mouthwash that can greatly reduce bacterial growth. Unlike some of its competitors, it doesn't contain fluoride.
• Crest Pro-health - is a good dental mouthwash that can be used to fight bacteria for overall dental health.

It is important to remember that mouthwash is an addition to your daily oral health routine and is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. However, it is a good idea to keep a travel mouthwash with you if you are out and about and need a quick fix!

Through regular brushing, flossing, and the use of a proven mouthwash, you can help to keep your mouth, gums, and teeth healthy and beautiful. If you are interested in learning more about good dental hygiene practices call your local Katy, Texas dental experts today at (281)646-8888. We would be happy to answer any of your questions, make an appointment for a regular dental check-up, or schedule you for a whitening consultation today.