Introduction
Mouthwash is a liquid rinse that is used to clean your teeth, gums, and mouth. It typically has an antiseptic to destroy bacteria that lives between your teeth and on your tongue.
It is a liquid passively maintained in the mouth by contraction of the perioral muscles and movement of the head. It can be gargled by bending the head back and allowing the liquid to bubble at the back of the mouth and throat.
Gargle
Gargling is the act of bubbling liquid or water in the mouth.
It is washing the mouth and throat with a liquid kept in motion by breathing through it with a gurgling sound.
Thus, gargle has often been used as a term for Mouthwash also.
Types of Mouthwas
In general, there are two types of Mouth-wash: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic may temporarily reduce bad breath and leave a pleasant taste behind, but it has no chemical or biological application beyond that. For example, if a product does not eliminate the bacteria that causes foul breath, its value is purely cosmetic. Therapeutic, on the other hand, contains active substances that help control or minimize problems such as bad breath, gingivitis, plaque, and tooth rot.
Active chemicals in therapeutic Mouthwash include
- Cetylpyridinium chloride,
- Chlorhexidine,
- Povidone,
- essential oils,
- fluoride,
- Peroxide, etc.
Mouth-wash uses.
Mouthwashes are sometimes used as antiseptic solutions to prevent microbial infections in the oral cavity and for analgesic, anti-inflammatory, or anti-fungal effects.
Mouth-washes are not an alternative to daily brushing or flossing. However, Mouthwash may be considered reasonable for some people’s daily oral hygiene routine.
Mouthwash, like interdental cleansers, has the advantage of reaching regions that a toothbrush can not. The personal choice may determine whether to rinse before or after brushing.
As a pharmacist, I strongly recommend using Mouthwash before going to bed.
How to use Mouth-wash
The product instructions may differ depending on the brand of Mouthwash you use. While using Mouthwash, always read and follow the package directions.
I’ll go over how to use Mouthwash shortly here.
1. First, brush your teeth.
Start by brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly.
If your toothpaste is medicated and advised by your dentist, wait a few minutes before gargling because it may remove the needed medicine from your teeth.
2. How much Mouthwash should I use?
Fill the cup given with the Mouthwash. Use only the amount of Mouthwash the manufacturer recommends. It usually ranges between 3 and 5 teaspoons.
If you’re using Listerine mouthwash, mix one cup (given with the bottle) with two cups of water.
If the Mouthwash contains betadine (povidone mouthwash), add drops until the water in the glass turns brownish.
If you’re using chlorhexidine mouthwash, stick to the same one-third ratio. Then, add one spoonful or a small cup of chlorhexidine mouthwash to two spoonfuls or small cups of water.
3. Prepare, sit or stand and rinse your mouth.
Pour the liquid from the cup or small amount of liquid into your mouth and swish it around. Please don’t drink it. Mouth-wash isn’t supposed to be ingested, and it won’t function if you do.
If only a small amount is ingested, there is no need to be concerned; this is not dangerous.
Gargle for 30 seconds while rinsing and spitting out.
Repeat the same until all the liquid finishes.
Side effects of Mouthwash
Most of them are safe due to their organic source of formulations. Nevertheless, if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, you may experience severe effects. However, certain chemical mouthwashes have serious side effects. Therefore, it is preferable to read the product label before purchasing or to check with a pharmacist.
Regular use of Mouthwashes is contraindicated.
Because it may disturb the normal flora of the mouth,
It causes oral thrush.
Toothpaste is, however, preferred over mouth wash for daily and frequent use.
