Mouthwash

Halitosis (Bad Breath)
Bad breath is an extremely common oral condition that is most often the result of poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, consumption of certain foods and beverages, or tobacco use. It may also result from an infection within the mouth, certain nose or throat conditions, or even systemic medical conditions. Mouthwash can remedy bad breath by reducing the amount odor-causing bacteria in the mouth and/or interfering with smelly sulfur compounds and leaving a fresh, clean scent in its place. If you practice good oral hygiene and have a healthy diet, but your bad breath persists, talk to your dentist to rule out any possible underlying conditions.

Gingivitis
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that commonly occurs as a result of plaque buildup on the teeth and gingiva. Plaque contains millions of bacteria. Certain types of mouthwash work to reduce plaque build-up and kill this bacteria, therefore helping to prevent or even reverse gingivitis.

Tooth Decay
Mouthwash containing fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and protecting from acid attacks. The bacteria within plaque produce acids, which eat away at enamel if teeth are not thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis. The bacteria feed on the sugars, starches, and other carbohydrates left on the teeth after eating. Tooth decay starts slowly with the acids eating away at the surface minerals of the tooth enamel. If the process goes on long enough it eventually results in a cavity, or a small hole that forms in your tooth after enough enamel is destroyed. The fluoride in water, toothpaste, rinses and other products helps replace the lost minerals and resist further acid attacks.

Topical Pain Relief
Mouthwashes that offer pain relief most often contain anesthetics, such as lidocaine, that gently numb the mouth to provide relief. These are typically prescribed by your dentist or physician.

Whitening
Some mouthwashes are formulated with active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide to reduce staining and whiten teeth. These typically require extended use before any results are noticeable and will not have the same effect as cosmetic whitening procedures performed by your dentist.

Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is an oral condition that results from reduced or absent saliva flow; it is a common side effect of certain medications. Mouthwashes that advertise for dry mouth relief help rinse away food particles and freshen breath, and also contain ingredients that lubricate the mouth and ease dry mouth symptoms.

Alveolar Osteitis (Dry Socket)
Dry socket is a complication of tooth extraction in which the underlying bone and nerves beneath the extraction site are exposed. This results in pain within the socket and along the side of the face. Mouthwash made with chlorhexidine may help prevent dry socket following wisdom tooth (third molar) extractions. Chlorhexidene containing rinses must be prescribed by your dentist.

There are many benefits to using mouthwash as part of your daily oral health regime including:
Additional cleaning: Mouthwash can help get to the remaining debris left behind after brushing and flossing. The liquid flows around and between your teeth, helping to flush out your mouth more thoroughly.
Healthy gums: Bacteria in your mouth can cause harm. Brushing does not remove bacteria, which can then be left to build up and cause irritation and inflammation of your gums. This can develop into serious periodontal disease. Mouthwash can help kill harmful bacteria for healthier gums.
Healthier teeth: Oral bacteria exposes your teeth to decay. Antibacterial mouthwash can kill bacteria to help prevent tooth decay.
Fresh breath: A quick rinse after eating strong foods like onions or garlic can help keep your breath fresh.
Strengthen enamel: Some mouthwashes contain enamel-strengthening ingredients which will help keep your teeth more resistant to decay.

Oral cancer: Some studies have shown that mouthwashes containing alcohol can have a negative effect on soft tissue in the mouth. This has been tied to oral cancer.
Irritation: For some people, alcohol produces an unpleasant burning effect, which can slow the healing of ulcers and canker sores.
Cosmetic solution for bad breath: BAD BREATH is masked by mouthwash, which does not assist in fighting the cause. If you suffer from halitosis, a medical condition causing severe bad breath, it is best to speak to us to find a more permanent solution.
Tooth staining: Certain mouthwashes contain heavy dyes that can actually stain your teeth.
Salt: Mouthwashes containing sodium lauryl sulphate actually are a source of sodium. For those on a low sodium diet, this can be problematic if the mouthwash is swallowed.
Killing good bacteria: Good bacteria? Yes, there is such a thing as good bacteria. It exists in places such as your digestive system, but also in your mouth. This good bacteria acts as a natural defense to fight pathogens. When you use mouthwashes that are considered “antiseptic” or “antibacterial”, they kill bacteria indiscriminately. This means they are killing both the good and bad bacteria in your mouth. This could reduce the effectiveness of your natural ability to fight pathogens and lessen your immunity.