Mouthwash Facts

In this post from Future of Dentistry at Willows – North Andover, we’re going to discuss mouthwash. Many people use mouthwash to freshen their breath and help prevent tooth decay. While some mouthwash has cavity-fighting additives, it should never be considered a substitute for brushing your teeth. Good dental health is centered on regular brushing and flossing.

It is important to know what kind of mouthwash you’re using. Some merely mask bad breath, while others help reduce the bacteria that causes plaque.

If you cope with bad breath, be sure to use a mouthwash with ingredients that also help prevent tooth decay, such as fluoride. You should also understand that some of the ingredients can be dangerous, even toxic, if not used properly.

Ingredients to watch out for are chlorhexidine gluconate, ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, and methyl salicylate. If you experience throat pain, vomiting, headache, or abdominal pain after using mouthwash, seek medical help immediately.

At Future of Dentistry at Willows – North Andover, services include general and restorative dentistry. Patients from throughout Greater Boston and Merrimack Valley trust us with their dental health! Contact us today!