MOUTHWASH
Frequently
Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why do you need a mouthwash?
Mouth harbors millions of bacteria on
the tongue, cheek and teeth. These bacteria multiply by using nutrients
in food particles, cell debris and secretions in mouth. Large bacterial
population can result in bad breath, gingivitis, plaque, cavities and
gum disease. A clean mouth has fewer nutrients for bacterial growth.
Mouthwash in combination with brushing, flossing and cleaning of tongue
can help to clean the mouth.
Is brushing not enough to clean the
mouth?
Brushing does mechanical cleaning of
teeth. Brushing does not reach every point in the mouth where most of
the bacteria are attached. Mouthwash can reach practically every surface
area in the oral cavity.
How does mouthwash clean the oral
cavity?
A good mouthwash product has at least
dual action. A detergent component helps dislodge food particles and
cell debris by mechanical force of gargling or swishing. It dilutes and
washes away oral secretions. The microbicidal property helps to reduce
bacterial population.
Can mouthwash eliminate all the
bacteria in the mouth?
Mouthwash does not eliminate all the
bacterial population in mouth. A good mouthwash reduces bacterial
population to a very low level to maintain better oral hygiene.
How to select a good mouthwash?
A good mouthwash should be safe and
effective. It should not contain any toxic ingredient. At the
same time it should have a high microbicidal activity. It should rapidly
kill a broad range of bacteria within the short duration of use. It
should have pleasant taste and flavor. Even children should be able to
use mouthwash, as they are most vulnerable to tooth decay.
How often should I use mouthwash?
Ideally after every major meal one
should use mouthwash. However, this is not always possible. One must use
mouthwash at least before and after brushing both in the morning and at
bedtime.
