- They freshen the mouth and protect the teeth from decay.
- Breath freshening is a feature of all mouth-rinses.
- Most mouth-rinses contain fluoride to prevent decay.
- Some mouth-rinses claim to have antibacterial and antiseptic properties.
Treatment for sensitive teeth is included in many mouth- rinses.
- Rinsing should be done an hour after brushing to be effective. This is because the chemical composition of toothpaste is such that the mouth rinses are rendered ineffective if used sooner. It is best to follow the instructions on the bottle regarding dilution and amount of solution to rinse with. This may vary depending on the chemical composition and the basis for using the rinse.
- Gargle for about half a minute and then spit out.
- Mouth-rinses are not to be swallowed. However, it doesn't matter if you swallow some by mistake.
- Peroxide and chlorhexidine are not safe to swallow. They are safe for rinsing only.
- The regular use and spitting out of a fluoride mouthwash is perfectly safe.
- Excessive doses of fluoride can cause fluorosis (discolouration and mottling of teeth) or can even be toxic.
- Some mouth rinses can stain your teeth, ask your dentist before deciding on a particular rinse.
- Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and use it is as a mouthwash.
- Diluted hydrogen peroxide is also used to rinse mouth.
Every time you eat, acid attacks your tooth enamel for at least 20 minutes. Drinking water helps your saliva dilute these acids.
