Mouthwash

Mouthwashes are quaternary ammonium compounds that contain cetylpyridinium chloride and domiphen bromide. Research shows that these agents can reduce dental plaque and gingivitis, but their main focus is to freshen breath or sweeten the mouth temporarily. They also aid in removing food particles. Experts say that the freshening effects of these mouthwashes last for about 15-20 minutes. They do not care bad breath, but mask bad breath.

The ADA recommends the daily use of a fluoride mouth rinse over age of 6; however, they are not a substitute for flossing or brushing. You should take the liquid into your mouth, swish it around vigorously for about a minute, and then spit it out. Do not swallow and try not to eat or drink for the next 30 minutes.

Listerine was the first over-the-counter anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis rinse to be given the ADA seal. There are several other antimicrobial mouth rinses in the market today and are recognized by the dental professionals for being useful as a preventive agent (anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis). This antimicrobial mouth rinse is a phenolic agent that contains additives that fight plaque by fighting or killing bacteria. Some patients experience an initial burning sensation and biter taste, but get accustomed in a few days. The antimicrobial rinses with the ADA seal have been shown to be so effective in killing bacteria that many dental professionals now have patients use them before dental procedures to prevent the spread of microorganisms during aerosol generating procedures.

The anti-plaque, pre-brushing dental rinses come in several flavors and a variety of colors. They usually contain sodium benzoate or benzoic acid, which are antimicrobial. The oxygenating agents for reducing mouth odors contain hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Recent studies reveal that these mouthwashes show promise for reducing plaque and gingivitis, but safety concerns have been raised over the chronic use of peroxide. Studies show that the effect of al of the mouth rises can be enhanced when delivered in a powdered oral irrigator.

Some brands of mouthwash contain upto 27% alcohol. Research indicates that 4.5 ounces of mouth rinse with 27 % alcohol is a potentially lethal dose for a 20-pound child. This is why ADA seal is only given to manufacturers which provide child resistant caps on their products that contain more than 3 grams of alcohol.

Before you buy a mouthwash, read the label to be sure you are getting a mouth rinse that fits your needs and taste. And remember, if it has a ADA seal, you can be sure if its effectiveness and safety.

Tagged as: mouth rinse, mouthwash