Mouthwash is more than just a quick rinse – it reaches the sneaky spots that brushing and flossing can’t, leaving your mouth and gums fresh. However, be cautious because some mouthwashes are packed with harsh chemicals that are refreshing at the moment but could harm your oral health in the long run.
Amandisa Mqhayi from Johannesburg says incorporating mouthwash into her oral care routine is a practice rooted in a combination of confidence, good habits, and overall oral health.
“Mouthwash gives me fresh breath and confidence, helps prevent gum disease and cavities, whitens my teeth and reduces plaque, reaches areas my toothbrush misses, and boosts my overall oral health.”
“I use mouthwash after every brushing and flossing. I love how it leaves my mouth feeling clean and fresh! It’s become a must-have in my daily routine.”
Amandisa Mqhayi
Despite hearing about mouthwash potentially harming enamel, Mqhayi says she hasn’t experienced any issues. “Always visit the dentist with any concerns, and always stick to the recommended one to two times a day.”
For Hopewell Makhubu from Nhlazatshe in Mpumalanga, his initial motivation for incorporating mouthwash into his daily regimen was to enhance his oral care and maintain good breath. However, his experience with mouthwash has not been without challenges.
The pros and cons of mouthwash
“I started using mouthwash to keep my breath fresh and my gums healthy. I don’t like the burning sensation it has on the tongue. The aftertaste also tends to make my stomach uncomfortable. Because of these effects, I don’t use it as often anymore, as I have opted for other alternatives,” says Makhubu.
According to dentist Neo Moloi from Pretoria, the primary purpose of mouthwash is to reduce bacteria in the mouth, which in turn decreases the risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum diseases.
“Mouthwash is an adjunct to tooth brushing and flossing. Its benefits include reduced risk of attaining dental issues by the reduction of bacteria, a fresh breath, and some have whitening chemicals so teeth are bleached to a small degree.”
However, Moloi also highlights potential risks associated with mouthwash use, such as:
- Dry mouth: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can cause dryness by disrupting saliva production.
- Irritation: Some mouthwashes, especially those containing alcohol, may cause a burning sensation or irritation in the mouth.
- Imbalance of oral microbiome: Excessive use of antibacterial mouthwashes can disturb the balance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth.
- Tooth staining: Some mouthwashes, particularly those containing chlorhexidine, may cause tooth staining if used long-term.
- Masking oral health issues: Relying on mouthwash alone can mask underlying issues like gum disease or cavities without addressing the root cause.
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Using mouthwash safely
Moloi furthermore advises on tips to use mouthwash safely to maximise its benefits:
- Choose alcohol-free mouthwashes.
- Use mouthwash as directed, usually once or twice daily, to avoid disrupting the oral microbiome.
- Before using medicated mouthwashes (like those for gingivitis), get professional advice, especially if you have specific oral health issues.
- Mouthwash should be spat out, not swallowed, to prevent ingestion of potentially harmful chemicals.
- Always follow the recommended usage guidelines on the product label.
Make your own mouthwash
For those looking to incorporate natural ingredients into their oral care routine, Moloi suggests several simple and safe homemade mouthwash options.
He explains that people can make simple, safe mouthwashes at home using natural ingredients like:
- Saltwater: A saltwater rinse can soothe inflamed gums and reduce bacteria.
- Baking soda: A baking soda rinse can help neutralise acids and freshen your breath.
- Essential oils: Diluting antimicrobial essential oils like tea tree or peppermint in water can create a natural mouthwash.
- Hydrogen peroxide: A diluted hydrogen peroxide rinse (with caution) can help whiten teeth and kill bacteria.
“Always consult a dentist before using homemade mouthwashes to ensure safety and effectiveness.”
While mouthwash can be a helpful addition to oral care routines, he advises that it should not replace brushing and flossing.
“Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health. If you experience any discomfort or adverse effects from using mouthwash, discontinue use and consult your dentist for advice tailored to your needs.”
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