What's so wrong with using mouthwash?

I can't count the number of times my clients ask me if they should use a mouthwash.

Well, one effective way of assisting oral hygiene certainly is the daily use of mouthwash. A variety of over the counter and prescription products are available for patients today, however it's important to know which is best for your needs.

Use fluoride mouthwash to prevent cavities.

If your goal is specifically to keep your teeth from getting cavities, you should choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride. It helps to reduce the lesions that lead to cavity formation. Fluoride is in most commercially available toothpaste, and it is also added to the water in many areas, but you should consider using extra fluoride if your teeth are particularly prone to cavities.

Use antimicrobial mouthwash to fight bacteria.

If you're looking for a mouthwash that actually cleans your mouth, choose one with antimicrobial agents that is alcohol free to reduce plaque and help fight gingivitis by killing harmful bacteria. Look for an over-the-counter mouthwash in the toothpaste aisle that is labeled as being antibacterial.

• Using an antibacterial mouthwash in addition to proper brushing and flossing will help you tackle the root of bad breath, which is often caused by bacteria.

Use prescription mouthwash for medical purposes.

If you have an infection or another medical condition, your doctor or dentist might prescribe a special mouthwash to treat the problem. Use the mouthwash as directed by your physician. Check the instructions that come with your prescription to learn about dosage and side effects.

Use cosmetic mouthwash to mask bad breath.

If your aim is simply to freshen up your breath, there are a variety of products you can choose from to cover the smell. These leave your mouth tasting pleasant and temporarily make your breath smell better. Cosmetic mouthwash is a good choice for rinsing after you've eaten a particularly pungent meal. It serves the same function as an after-dinner mint, with fewer calories!

• If you have chronic bad breath, cosmetic mouthwash isn't going to address the source of the issue. It masks bad smells, but it doesn't kill the bacteria that produces them. The point of cosmetic mouthwash is just to make your mouth taste good
• You can make you own cosmetic mouthwash by adding 15 drops of peppermint or spearmint essential oil to a cup of water.

Use herbal mouthwash to avoid dyes and chemicals.

If you want to start using mouthwash, but would prefer to know exactly what you're using to rinse your teeth every day, choose one (or make your own) that is made with herbs that promote good oral health. Clove, peppermint and rosemary are all herbs that are traditionally used in preparations for the mouth and teeth due to their antibacterial, antiseptic and cooling properties.

Gabby's advice:

Always remember, whilst mouthwashes can bring additional benefits to your oral health, toothbrushing, interdental cleaning (flossing etc) and regular visits to your dentist and hygienist are the only sure-fire ways of reducing the plaque that causes cavities and gum disease. Mouthwashes should only be used as an addition to your home-care dental regime that I or your hygienist can tailor for you. 

Source: http://www.wikihow.com

About Gabby:
I'm the dental hygienist at Peppermint Dental Centre in Wymondham 

Ouch! Do you have sensitive teeth?

So many people come into the practice concerned about sensitive teeth, so I’ve tried to explain the causes below and give some advice on what to do.

Sensitive teeth can be caused by the following:

Gum Disease

Gum disease (also known as gingivitis) causes inflamed and sore gum tissue.  If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. Periodontitis is when gum disease gets worse and damages the tissues and bone that support the teeth. One sign of periodontitis is sensitive teeth, as the receding gums leave dentine exposed.

Receding Gums

Receding gums can be caused by conditions such as gum disease, which can expose the tooth's dentine and cause sensitivity. Brushing too vigorously can also cause receding gums.

Teeth Grinding

If you grind your teeth when you sleep or during the day, or if you clench your teeth, you may be wearing down enamel and exposing the underlying dentine layer of your tooth.

Brushing

Brushing shortly after acid challenge can cause the enamel to be more easily worn away, as during this time the enamel is softened and more vulnerable. Brushing too vigorously can also cause receding gums, causing further exposure of the dentine.

If your teeth are sensitive, there are several simple but important steps you can take today to manage sensitive teeth and to help stop them from getting worse.

• See your dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups, cleanings, dental care recommendations and advice for your sensitive teeth.
• Practice good oral hygiene, including proper brushing and flossing, to help prevent conditions such as gum disease, which can cause receding gums.
• Avoid grinding your teeth or clenching during the day. Ask your dentist about a mouth guard for night time use.
• Avoid acidic foods that can wear away tooth enamel, such as wine, vinegar salad dressings, fruit juice and soft drinks.
• Use a toothpaste specially formulated to treat the pain of sensitive teeth.
• Don't brush too hard. Use a soft toothbrush, preferably one designed especially for sensitive teeth.

Gabby’s advice: 

Don’t rinse away the toothpaste after brushing as it works better by remaining on your teeth for as long as possible. And if your teeth are extra sensitive, you can rub the toothpaste directly onto the tooth when you need some relief.

Source: http://www.sensodyne.co.uk

Image: http://www.webdental.com