The Truth About Alcohol-Based Mouthwash and Your Oral Health
When it comes to keeping our mouths clean and healthy, mouthwash is often a popular choice. Many people reach for alcohol-based mouthwash, thinking it’s the best way to kill germs and freshen breath. But is it really the best option for everyone? Let’s take a closer look at alcohol-based mouthwash and explore some alternatives that might be better for you and your family.
Understanding Alcohol-Based Mouthwash
Alcohol-based mouthwash contains a high percentage of alcohol, usually around 20-30%. This type of mouthwash can be effective at killing bacteria and reducing plaque, however, there are some downsides to using alcohol-based mouthwash regularly:
Dry Mouth: Alcohol can be very drying. Using an alcohol-based mouthwash can reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth, leading to dry mouth and causing cavities. Saliva is important because it helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
Irritation: Some people find that alcohol-based mouthwash can cause a burning sensation and irritation, especially if they have sensitive gums or existing mouth sores.
Masking Problems: While mouthwash can freshen your breath, it might only be masking bad breath without addressing the underlying cause. It’s always a good idea to see your dentist if you have persistent bad breath.
Health Effects: Alcohol-based mouthwash, when used over the years, can cause cancer as it is a constant irritant.
Alcohol-Free Alternatives
Thankfully, there are plenty of alcohol-free mouthwash options available that can be just as effective without the downsides:
Fluoride Mouthwash: This helps strengthen your teeth and can prevent cavities. It’s a great option for children and adults alike.
Natural Mouthwash: Look for mouthwashes with natural ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, or xylitol. These can help reduce bacteria and freshen breath gently.
Salt Water Rinse: A simple salt water rinse can be very effective at reducing bacteria and soothing sore gums. It’s a great, cost-effective alternative.
At Creekside Family Dental Care, we advocate for Oral Science products because they do not contain alcohol and work by changing the pH of the mouth to reduce dental caries and bacterial load. We have received great feedback and are seeing significantly less plaque on our patients. Please note: we do not make any money from selling products at the office or from making recommendations. This is prohibited.
Tips for Great Oral Health
No matter what type of mouthwash you choose, it’s important to remember that mouthwash is just one part of your oral health routine. Here are some tips to keep your smile bright and healthy:
Brush Twice a Day: Make sure to brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste.
Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline that your toothbrush can’t reach.
Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. This helps catch any problems early and keeps your teeth and gums healthy.
Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary snacks and drinks. Foods high in sugar can lead to cavities and other dental issues.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and help wash away food particles and bacteria.
Taking care of your oral health is important for your overall well-being. By choosing the right mouthwash and following good dental habits, you can ensure that your smile stays healthy and bright for years to come.
Dr. Elke Krach and the team of dental experts at Creekside Family Dental Care are here to help if you have any questions. We're here to help you and your family achieve the best oral health possible!
Give us a call at 905.295.3011 to schedule an appointment today!