Sabrina Del Fico It is undoubtedly an essential product for oral hygiene, but is it healthy to use mouthwash every day?
@Canva
Mouthwash is a crucial product for maintaining oral health. With its blend of fluoride, antiseptics, and other chemicals, it ensures a clean mouth and fresh breath after every use.
Many people, following their dentists’ advice, use mouthwash daily—sometimes even multiple times a day.
But is it healthy to use mouthwash every day? What are the benefits and potential risks of using this product? Let’s explore.
Mouthwash: benefits
Mouthwash offers numerous benefits for regular users in terms of oral cleanliness and eliminating bad breath. Specifically, it:
- Complements oral hygiene by reaching areas the toothbrush cannot, such as the tongue, inner mouth walls, and interdental spaces, removing plaque and bacteria that cause problems.
- Prevents cavities by strengthening tooth enamel and reducing demineralization.
- Fights bad breath by eliminating bacteria that cause foul odors, maintaining fresh breath for extended periods.
- Helps reduce plaque, the bacterial film on teeth that can cause painful gingivitis.
…and side effects
However, frequent use of mouthwash can lead to unwanted side effects and minor discomforts, such as:
- Dry mouth: mouthwashes, especially those with alcohol, can cause a dry sensation by dehydrating oral tissues.
- Oral irritation: the alcohol content can irritate the mucous membranes or exacerbate dental and gum sensitivity in individuals with delicate oral tissues.
- Altered taste sensation: ingredients like chlorhexidine can cause temporary changes in taste.
Is it safe to use mouthwash every day?
Given that mouthwash is a strong product and considering the side effects that often occur with its use, it is reasonable to question whether daily use is healthy.
In reality, the frequency of use depends on individual needs and specific oral health conditions. Therefore, there is no universal answer to this question.
Naturally, the type of mouthwash chosen also plays a significant role in its usage frequency.
Alcohol-based mouthwashes are stronger and potentially more irritating compared to non-alcoholic ones, which are more recommended for those with dental and gum sensitivity.
Tips for proper mouthwash use
Here are some tips for using mouthwash correctly:
- Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dosage, and do not dilute the product unless indicated.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with mouthwash for 30-60 seconds, ensuring it reaches every part of your mouth, and then spit it out, being careful not to swallow the product.
- Do not rinse your mouth with water after using mouthwash, as this could dilute the product and reduce its effectiveness.
- Finally, avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using mouthwash.
