By Mouthwashes are due after you brush your teeth. It is an aqueous solution whose main function is to prevent the formation of plaque and tartar and prevent gum disease like gingivitis and periodontitis and it even treats them if they exist as its components include antimicrobials and healing characteristics while some mouthwashes also contain fluoride to prevent cavities.
At present, there are numerous types of mouthwashes and they can be found in pharmacies and supermarkets. However, the choice should always be under the supervision of a dentist, it will depend on the dental and periodontal health of each person.
For example, mouthwashes for children should have low concentration of fluorine and not contain alcohol. Keep in mind that most of these products contain alcohol for having being antiseptic action; therefore, it is necessary to dilute some of its components.
You can establish a classification of mouthwash in terms of its components and objectives which are as follows;
1 – Chlorhexidine
It has a plaque and antibacterial action and is particularly suitable when there is periodontal disease or injury on mucosa border and for preventive purposes before oral surgery. In these cases, it is a two-week treatment and must be used twice daily for 30 seconds at least. This is important because if it is used for a long time, it may cause staining of teeth and gums and reduce the sense of taste.
2 – Hexitidine
It has antiseptic and antifungal action and can accelerate the healing process after periodontal surgery. Zinc salts are added to strengthen its anti-plaque action. Its daily use removes pathogenic bacteria.
3 – Povidone-Iodine
It is bactericidal and fungicidal and it primarily used to prevent the progression of gingivitis as well as resistance to other treatments like periodontitis.
4 – Essential Oils
They are effective in removing plaque and reduction of gingivitis. They are often bitter, though, currently marketed with different flavors.
5 – Phenols
They are of the same group of essential oils. They have an anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory action. Other components are added to strengthen the effect of most important active agent, triclosan.
6 – Natural Products
The main ingredients are plant extracts like aloe vera, bloodroot, propolis, etc. Same antimicrobial properties are attributed to itself, although this statement is not usually supported by scientific regulated studies.
7 – Fluoride
Its content confers specificity in preventing caries, although its antiplaque effect is significantly lower than other mouthwashes.
8 – Metal Salts
These high concentrations of salts such as stannous fluoride are needed to act effectively in inhibiting plaque. It should be noted that in addition to their bad taste, they can cause certain toxicity.
9 – Bleaching Agents
They are used to reinforce and maintain the effect of a professional tooth whitening treatment.
You can see that the choice of a mouthwash to complement brushing oral hygiene is not simple if you do not have right information. This is why you should consult your dental clinic in Dubai about what is best in each case.
