How to use mouthwash: Dentist tips
Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Effective oral hygiene isn't just about brushing your teeth. It also requires the use of dental floss, regular visits to the dentist, and the inclusion of mouthwash in your routine, according to dentist Shaadi Manouchehri.
When to use mouthwash
Dentist Shaadi Manouchehri explains that there are specific times of the day when you should use mouthwash.
Using mouthwash right after brushing your teeth is one of the worst things you can do. It may be the reason why cavities form.
"After you’ve brushed your teeth, spit, but don’t rinse. Leave that layer of fluoride to do its job," the doctor advised.
This strengthens your teeth from the inside and kills the bacteria that cause bad breath. If you rinse with mouthwash right after brushing, it can undo all the work your toothpaste just did.
Dr. Manouchehri recommends using mouthwash before brushing your teeth or at another time of day, such as after drinking tea or coffee.
Brushing your teeth immediately after eating can lead to enamel erosion.
However, it’s crucial to remember that mouthwash should be alcohol-free, as alcohol can dry out your mouth and cause long-term harm.
Additionally, if you plan to use a fluoride mouthwash, it should not replace thorough tooth brushing.
How to brush your teeth
For effective and healthy brushing, change your toothbrush every three months. This also applies to the heads of electric toothbrushes. It's also recommended to replace your toothbrush if you’ve been ill.
Harmful bacteria can linger in the bristles, so changing your toothbrush immediately after recovery is crucial. Timely replacement of your toothbrush helps prevent the reappearance of bacteria.
When brushing your teeth, follow these recommendations:
- Hold your toothbrush parallel to your teeth, with the brush head at a 45-degree angle.
- Brush your upper teeth with upward and downward strokes, and your lower teeth with downward and upward strokes.
- Clean the inner surfaces of your back teeth with circular motions and the inner surfaces of your front teeth with short strokes.
- Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth by moving the brush back and forth.
- Finish by making circular motions with the brush, covering both teeth and gums with your jaws closed.
- Clean your tongue with a scraper located on the back of the toothbrush or with the brush itself.
- Use dental floss to remove any remaining food particles and plaque between your teeth.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
