Mouthwash is Not a Substitute for Flossing

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Mouthwash is a common product found in many American households. People use mouthwash for a variety of reasons. Some mouthwash brands are used only freshen the breath for a short amount of time and have no appreciable clinical value.

Antiseptic mouthwash can be used as part of your daily hygiene regimen. These products have ingredients in them that help kill bacteria that can lead to plaque buildup. Some brands of antiseptic mouthwash also come with fluoride to helps make tooth enamel more resistant to decay. Others might have astringent salts or other compounds that help fight bad breath.

However it is also important to note that they cannot replace floss’s ability to physically remove food particles from between your teeth. The act of flossing itself is the most effective way to clean between your teeth that you can do at home.

When choosing a brand of mouthwash for your family, look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. This seal means that the product has been researched and tested by the ADA for safety and effectiveness.

If you have questions about the mouthwash your family uses, please feel free to call us at 912-354-9541 or ask us at your next dental cleaning appointment.