Rinsing with mouthwash is often advertised as a safe and necessary part of your oral health care regimen. But what do dentists really think of mouthwash? Well, it all depends on the type of mouthwash you use.

Alcoholic Mouthwashes

Alcohol isn’t safe for your teeth because it’s highly acidic and can dissolve the enamel—the protective outer layer—of your teeth. Continual exposure to alcohol can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss. Over-exposure to alcohol can even increase your chance of developing oral cancer! Mouthwash that contains alcohol is especially dangerous to your oral health because it contains a high concentration of alcohol, and is exposed to your teeth for a long period of time as you swish it around your mouth. So even though you may find the sting of mouthwashes that contain alcohol oddly refreshing, it’s best to stay away from them for the sake of your oral health.

Alternatives to Mouthwash

Although mouthwash can help freshen your breath quickly, it doesn’t do much to have a lasting impact on your oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth twice per day and rinsing thoroughly with water will do enough to keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy. However, if you do want to use a mouthwash to freshen your breath while you’re on the go, use an alcohol-free mouthwash with fluoride or a natural mouthwash to keep your teeth safe. You can also buy sugar-free mints and gum with xylitol to freshen your breath and even help prevent tooth decay. Make sure to look out for the American Dental Association seal on the label so you know ours dentist would approve of it!

We Can Help You Have Superb Oral Health!

Daily brushing and flossing, along with biannual dental checkups will ensure your teeth and gums stay in tip-top shape. No matter what your concerns are, our friendly, skilled dental team at Mission Hills Family Dental are here to help you have a clean bill of health. Contact us to schedule and appointment!