How to Choose a Mouthwash

It is amazing how many choices exist in the dental care aisle at any large chain store. It can be overwhelming for those who haven’t yet chosen a favorite variety of brush, paste, and mouthwash.

So, how does the beginner pick from the many different varieties of dental rinse?

Mouthwash does come in several brand names and can make wide varieties of claim regarding its potential power. The one that you choose will likely depend on your needs.

For those trying to escape foul breath, brands like Scope offer zinc and chlorine based rinses that have been shown to combat the bacteria and neutralize the sulphur they put off.

On the other hand, Listerine and similar brands often feature products laced with thymol, eucalyptol or menthol, which truly do a number on mouth bacteria, thereby reducing the chances of cavities and infection.

Finally, those containing fluoride are great for those who are prone to cavities, especially those who don’t have fluoride in their drinking water. While this substance doesn’t defend against gum disease, it does strengthen enamel to defend against boring bacteria.

For those who need more help than can be offered by over-the-counter brands, there are even prescription mouthwashes that can actually help fend off the effects of gingivitis or periodontitis.

So, depending on the needs of your mouth, these rinses can serve a variety of purposes. It’s worth taking a moment to seek out the one that will best help you, but always opt for an ADA approved brand.

For more information, read the full article.