The Digital Dental Surgeon

Most people I know do not use mouthwashes regularly. Out many patients that I see in the clinic, almost 90 percent of them do not use mouthwashes.

Is it a necessity?

Mouthwashes are available in different types and composition. Some may contain up to 20 percent alcohol while others may be alcohol free. Alcohol in mouthwashes may aggravate or worsen chronic bad breath as it is a drying agent. Some of the more common active ingredients include chlorhexidine gluconate, cetylpyridinium chloride, hydrogen peroxide, sodium chlorite and fluoride.

A study has shown that by using chlorhexidine gluconate, cetylpyridinium chloride or sodium chlorite based mouthwashes, halitosis (bad mouth odour) would be reduced in around two to four weeks.

I would recommend regular mouthwashes with chlorhexidine gluconate twice a day at around 30 seconds per gargle. Young children should be refrained from taking mouthwashes as they may swallow it (regular toothbrushing should suffice).

Popularity: 18% [?]