When to use Mouthwashes: Before or after brushing?

 Most mouthwashes and oral rinse usually contain chemical or drugs which are meant for treatment action/therapeutic uses or preventive measures such as mouth odor, prevention of dental caries, refreshing of the mouth, etc.

Although most commercially available mouthwashes contain flavoring agents that make the mouth feel clean. The flushing action may loosen food debris, but it will not dislodge or remove dental plaque. Some mouthwashes have bacteriostatic or bactericidal effects, but this is only a temporary action.

 

Fortunately, recent research studies have shown that certain mouthwashes may help in the chemical control of dental plaque. Mouth rinse comes either saline solution (warm water salt solution) or oxygenating agents (e. g. hydrogen peroxide solution) is beneficial during acute gum disease because they are active against microorganisms and help remove food debris (debridement).

There has been a trending subject for every individual including dental professionals. Many people don't pay too much attention to Brushing, flossing, rising, and other methods.

Unfortunately, a quick scrub before you rush out the door will not do much to preserve your oral health and prevent cavities. Proper routines take a little more care, like knowing whether you should use mouthwash before or after you brush. But first, a few basics.

What is Mouthwashes?

Typically mouthwash is an antiseptic solution that helps to reduce harmful microbes in the mouth (Usually recommended by a dentist). Most mouth rinse comes in liquid form that people gargle their mouth with to help clean teeth, prevent infection, and freshen breath.

Physicians or clinicians might also recommend some rinses as an anti-inflammatory or anti-fungal solution. In most cases patients use mouth rinse as a saliva substitute, to help neutralize acid production in the mouth and counteract the effects of xerostomia (dry mouth). Mouthwash is also commonly known as an oral rinse or mouth bath.

Why Use Mouthwashes?

The most common use for commercial antiseptic mouthwash is at home oral hygiene. Using mouthwash daily is a good way to maintain better oral health and eliminate bad breath. It effectively reaches areas of the mouth where the toothbrush and dental floss can’t—the back of the throat, inside of cheeks, and between teeth.

Anti-plaque rinses specifically eliminate bacterial plaque. Anti-cavity mouth rinses contain fluoride to help prevent dental decay.

It is important to know that mouthwashes and rinses should be used only to complement brushing not to replace it. Examples of mouthwashes and rinses are oral B. Mouthwashes, Listerine, saline solution, diluted hydrogen peroxide, etc.

When to Use Mouthwashes

So, do you use mouthwash before or after you brush? There are actually rational arguments for both. Those who argue for mouthwash before brushing suggest this practice loosens plaque and food particles, making it easier to remove them by brushing. Also, rinsing right after brushing your teeth can wash away the concentrated fluoride in the toothpaste you use.

Those on the opposite side say brushing clears and dislodges the microbial load, and using mouthwash after thoroughly rinses and disinfects the mouth. That said, most dentists agree patients should use a mouthwash containing fluoride after brushing their teeth. And they also suggest you don't rinse your mouth with water right after either. This gives the rinse more time to work and more effectively protects your teeth.

Despite what they say, there are few studies that statistically prove one is more effective than the other. What is most important is you take the time to brush, floss, and rinse daily to prevent the buildup of plaque. Proper technique trumps the order unless you have been given specific directions from your dentist or health care provider.

How to Rinse with Mouthwashes

 

Just as with brushing and flossing, how you rinse your mouth is also important. Here are some steps to follow:

 

Most pharmaceutical companies suggest you don’t eat or drink for 30 minutes after using mouthwash. If you do not rinse with or drink water immediately after it gives the residual solution more time to kill bacteria and keep your breath fresh.