Mouthwashes contribute to the health of your teeth and gums—but only if used correctly.
People often use these products “because that’s what you’re supposed to do,” even though they lack basic information about them. On the other hand, many people don’t include them in their daily oral hygiene routine. Here are some basic facts and myths about mouthwashes.
1. Using mouthwash can replace brushing your teeth
False. Mouthwashes are supplementary tools for maintaining oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste mechanically removes most soft deposits and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Using an interdental brush helps clean hard-to-reach areas between teeth. Mouthwash helps reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth after brushing. It also makes the teeth less receptive to the formation of new plaque. Mouthwash can be used as a temporary substitute for brushing when you are unable to perform thorough oral hygiene, helping to reduce the risk of cavities or gum inflammation.
2. Mouthwash cures bad breath
Also false. Mouthwash may temporarily ease a bad taste in the mouth or mask bad breath, but it won’t eliminate the root cause. It’s important to identify the exact cause of bad breath to address it properly. This could be a decayed tooth, buildup on the tongue, or unhealthy gums. Additionally, certain medications or conditions affecting the respiratory or digestive systems may cause bad breath.
3. All mouthwashes are the same
There are two main types: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes are what we typically refer to when discussing freshening breath or reducing bacteria and plaque. These will leave a refreshing taste in your mouth. Therapeutic mouthwashes, on the other hand, are usually prescribed by a dentist and are used to treat specific conditions or issues. They should not be used without professional guidance.
4. Mouthwashes are completely harmless
Some therapeutic mouthwashes can affect the way food tastes. Others may stain the tongue and oral mucosa. Since these products are intended for swishing and not swallowing, accidental ingestion can be unpleasant. Alcohol found in many mouthwashes can make the taste too strong or irritate the mucosa. In such cases, you can dilute the mouthwash with water before use or opt for alcohol-free products, which tend to have a milder taste.
5. Light swishing for a few seconds is enough
It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding how long to rinse. Research shows that around 30 seconds of swishing is the most effective.
6. Mouthwash is not suitable for children
True. Most mouthwashes are designed for adults and should not be used by children under the age of 6, as their swallowing reflex is not fully developed and there’s a risk of ingestion. Even older children should use mouthwash only under parental supervision and only if the product is suitable for their age. There are child-friendly formulas on the market with gentler ingredients and more pleasant flavors, but it’s still essential to follow the instructions and consult a dentist.
We recommend using mouthwash as needed. Because of the strong taste, which some people find unpleasant, it’s not necessary to use it multiple times a day or daily. On the other hand, some people enjoy the fresh-mouth feeling and use mouthwash frequently. These products are especially useful for patients who have many fillings or prosthetic dental work (crowns and bridges), as their use helps reduce bacterial buildup on all surfaces—those that are accessible and inaccessible to brushing.
