Many people use mouthwash as part of their daily oral care routine, but do you know why it is beneficial? Mouthwash can offer several advantages for your dental health, especially when used after brushing and flossing your teeth.

Here are four benefits that using mouthwash offers. 

1. Wash Away Particles While Killing Bacteria

Most people only use mouthwash after brushing or flossing, but it can also be helpful to use it before. The rinse can help wash away any food particles or debris that may be stuck in your teeth or gums, making it easier for your toothbrush and floss to clean them.

Additionally, mouthwash can help kill bacteria that cause bad breath, plaque, and gum disease. Some mouth rinses contain antiseptic ingredients that can reduce the number of harmful microbes in your mouth.

2. Reduce the Risk of Plaque Buildup

Plaque has a sticky consistency and is made from bacteria, biofilm, and food particles. The substance forms on your teeth and gums and if left in place, hardens into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dentist. Moreover, the hardened plaque can cause gingival inflammation.

Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing can help prevent the growth of plaque on your teeth and gums. Some mouthwashes contain therapeutic ingredients that can inhibit plaque formation and accumulation.

3. Fight Gum Disease

The gums are sensitive tissues that are easily inflamed by bacterial acids. Gum disease is a common condition that affects many adults. It is caused by inflammation and infection of the gums.

The condition can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, bleeding, pain, and receding gums. It can also lead to tooth loss and other health problems if left untreated.

Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing can help fight gum disease by reducing plaque and bacteria in your mouth. Additionally, some mouthwashes contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents that can soothe and heal your gums.

4. Help With Canker Sores

Canker sores are small ulcerous sores that form inside your oral cavity, usually on your cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums. They can be caused by various factors such as stress, injury, allergies, or nutritional deficiencies. Canker sores can be very painful and make it difficult to drink, eat, or talk.

Using mouthwash after brushing and flossing can help with canker sores by cleaning and disinfecting the affected area. In addition, some mouthwashes contain soothing ingredients such as aloe vera or chamomile that can reduce the pain and inflammation of canker sores.

Mouthwash can be an excellent addition to your oral hygiene routine. To learn more, reach out to a local dentist office.