Preventive Care Dentistry

When shopping for oral care products, you may be overwhelmed by all the options for toothbrushes, toothpastes, and mouth rinses. You may wonder if all of these products are necessary or even beneficial. While maintaining oral hygiene is important to your overall health, knowing the right products to use can help you achieve a healthy smile. Different mouthwashes are recommended in different circumstances, and identifying your need can help you make the right decision when shopping.

Fluoride Mouth Rinse

If you have suffered from lots of cavities in your teeth, your dentist or hygienist may recommend that you use a daily fluoride mouth rinse. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen enamel, making it more difficult for sugar and acid to form cavities on teeth. Fluoride rinses can be given to you at your dentist’s office in prescription strength, or your dental professional may suggest that you use an over-the-counter fluoride rinse instead. These rinses can be beneficial for those who consume a lot of sugar or have a history of tooth decay.

Dry Mouth Rinse

Many people suffer from dry mouth as a side effect of medication or a health condition. Rinses that are specially formulated for dry mouth can be helpful for these people, as the oral tissues can often become painful and irritated when too dry. These rinses can often be used several times throughout the day to provide the mouth with the lubrication it needs for normal function.

Refreshing Mouth Rinse

Perhaps you are just looking for a mouth rinse to freshen your breath and want something that will make your mouth feel even cleaner after brushing and flossing. In this case, a normal mouth rinse can be what you need. Be careful, however, if you notice dry mouth after using a rinse that is alcohol-based. The alcohol in these rinses can dry out the oral tissues, so if you feel like this is happening to you, switch to an alcohol-free rinse instead.

Although shopping for oral health products can be daunting with all the many options available, knowing your specific needs can help narrow down the products that are best suited for you. Whether you suffer from dry mouth, need extra strength in your enamel, or just want a fresh feeling after brushing, there are mouth rinses that can help you achieve your desired result. At your next routine visit for preventive care dentistry, discuss what type of rinse would be most beneficial for your oral health.

Resources:

Wikipedia, Dental Care

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