Fresh Breath Mouthwash
As the name suggests, fresh breath mouthwashes are designed to provide a fresh burst and a temporary solution for bad breath (halitosis). These feel fresh mouthwashes often contain ingredients that mask the unpleasant odours that arise out of your mouth. Also called cosmetic mouthwashes, they typically contain flavours like peppermint and cool mint, leaving your mouth feeling clean and refreshed. However, while they freshen breath, they generally do not contain ingredients to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath, nor do they necessarily help prevent gum disease or caries.
Antibacterial Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwashes are designed to target harmful bacteria in your mouth. They usually work by stopping the growth of bacteria or reducing their activity. These mouthwashes can be especially useful if you have gum infections like gingivitis, as they help promote healing. However, using an antibacterial mouthwash does not replace brushing and flossing. While they can support your oral hygiene routine, they do not remove plaque or clean the surfaces of your teeth.
Antiseptic Mouthwash
Antiseptic mouthwash is designed to reduce various types of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Its primary goal is to reduce the overall presence of harmful microbes in the mouth, helping to prevent infections and promote overall oral health. The active ingredients in antiseptic mouthwash liquid work by killing or stopping the growth of bacteria that lead to plaque, gingivitis, and bad breath. It helps keep your gums healthy, prevents plaque buildup, and can be beneficial for those with gum disease concerns.
Alcohol Free Mouthwash
Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, often ethanol, which can cause a burning sensation in the mouth. If you experience discomfort or irritation from alcohol-based mouthwashes, switching to an alcohol free mouthwash may be better. The benefits of alcohol free mouthwash are especially notable for people with dry mouth (xerostomia) or those who have reduced saliva flow due to medication or other factors. Additionally, alcohol free mouthwashes are believed to have a gentler effect on dental restorations, like fillings and crowns, helping to preserve their gloss, colour, and hardness better than mouthwashes with alcohol.
Herbal Mouthwash
For those seeking a more natural option, herbal mouthwashes prepared with extracts and essential oils can be a good choice. These mouthwashes offer gentle remedial effects for people with sensitive gums or those who are avoiding synthetic chemicals. Herbal mouthwashes can provide breath-freshening effects and mild antibacterial benefits, making them a popular choice for dental care. They have also exhibited potential benefits in dental plaque and inflammation control.
How to Choose The Right Mouthwash?
With so many types of mouthwash available in India, finding the one that fits your needs can be a bit challenging. If you are unsure about which to choose among the various over-the-counter options, a dentist can guide you in finding the best mouthwash for issues like bad breath, gum disease, or dry mouth. Here are a few things for you to keep in mind when selecting the right mouthwash product:
Purpose: Figuring out why you need mouthwash is really important. The purpose can vary between the reasons, which include freshening breath, reducing plaque that could otherwise harden to tartar, gum inflammation, strengthening teeth, and even reducing tooth sensitivity.
Active Ingredients: Consider the active ingredients present in a mouthwash to understand whether they will suit your specific needs. You may look for ingredients like chlorhexidine to fight bacteria and essential oils like thymol and menthol to freshen your breath. Fluoride mouthwashes can help strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
Alcohol Content: Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can cause dryness or irritation, especially if you have a sensitive or dry mouth. Alcohol free mouthwashes may be a better option if you are looking to avoid these side effects.
Flavours: Choose a flavour you like. A pleasant taste can make it easier to incorporate mouthwash into your daily routine.
Whether you are seeking help with anti-plaque, fresh breath, teeth whitening, managing mouth ulcers, or any other oral health conditions, choosing the right mouthwash can make a big difference.
