What Are the Pros and Cons Associated with Using Mouthwash?

Pros And Cons Of Mouthwash-Use

According to the American Dental Association, the use of mouthwash is considered to be a helpful addition to the daily brushing and flossing oral health regimen performed daily. This type of rinse is believed to be effective in reaching areas within the mouth that are not easy to reach by toothbrush.

Additionally, the mouthwashes available over-the-counter are believed to be effective for combatting bad breath, helping in reducing the development of cavities, preventing the onset of gum disease, relieving issues associated with dry mouth, and possibly eliminating the pain that may develop from sores in the mouth.

The question is, what are the pros and the cons of using the substance?

The Pros

There are several benefits associated with using mouthwash. The following outlines the advantages that may be experienced when utilizing mouthwash in combination with brushing and flossing:

  • Mouthwash contains ingredients that help with freshening the breath. Many of these products contain ingredients that fight bacteria. Examples include cetylpyridinium and chlorhexidine. Additionally, there are ingredients that neutralize smells, such as chlorine dioxide.
  • Mouthwash helps to rinse away harmful substances – such as bacteria – which results in optimizing the health of the gums.
  • Mouthwashes that do not contain alcohol are capable of aiding in the healing of canker sores by reducing the inflammation that occurs as a result of the buildup of bacteria.
  • There are several mouthwashes available on the market that include whitening ingredients that can help make the teeth whiter and brighter.
  • Most mouthwashes contain fluoride, which helps to strengthen the enamel on the teeth.
  • Finally, the mouth rinses available today help to fight cavities by successfully rinsing away the bacteria that often clings to the teeth.

The Cons

In addition to the benefits associated with mouthwash, there are also a few cons. These include the following:

  • Most mouthwashes contain alcohol because of its unique ability to fight bacteria. While effective, the alcohol may burn or irritate the mouth.
  • If an alcohol-based mouthwash is used regularly, it could result in the onset of dry mouth. If the mouth becomes too dry or stays dry for an extended amount of time, it could cause bad breath, the teeth may become sensitive, and it could result in the development of cavities.
  • If there are sores or cuts in the mouth, mouthwash that contains alcohol could result in the onset of irritation or slow the rate in which the sores heal.
  • Mouthwash has the potential to cover up symptoms that could indicate an underlying medical condition. For example, a fruity smell on the breath could indicate diabetes. Other smells could indicate a sinus infection, bronchitis, acid reflux, liver problems, and kidney issues.
  • Since the 1970s, it has been believed that certain types of mouthwashes have a direct link to the development of oral cancer. While this has yet to be confirmed, it is a possibility.

If you have a concern about the use of mouthwash, you should contact a dental professional for expert advice. If you are in need of a periodontist in Wichita, you may contact us today by calling: 316-683-2525