At Habbits, we believe that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a healthy smile. One of the key components of an effective oral hygiene routine is the use of mouthwash. But with that comes a lot of confusion too.
How long should a mouthwash be used? Should you use mouthwash before or after brushing? When during the day should you use mouthwash? Why can't you eliminate your foul breath while using mouthwash every day? These are some typical queries that you might believe are too stupid to ask your dentist, or you might decide not to bother. So we’re here to make things clear for you.
About 25% of the surfaces of your teeth are only cleaned when you brush them. An excellent complement to your dental hygiene regimen is mouthwash. It helps to clean those difficult-to-reach areas in your mouth and keeps your breath tasting fresh. You must use mouthwash properly and at the proper time in order to get the most benefit.
Is there a difference between using mouthwash in the morning and at night?
Most commonly, people use mouthwash to combat foul breath. So it only makes sense that you would want to use it before leaving the house. Utilizing mouthwash is mostly done to eliminate the bacteria that cause foul breath. However, mouthwash should only be used at night if you regularly floss, brush, rinse, and oil pull.
Since you keep eating all day, the greatest time for the mouthwash's antibacterial ability to kill harmful bacteria is at night. Since there is no night-time eating activity, the mouthwash has enough time to work.
Just before bed, swishing mouthwash about in your mouth will break up bacterial colonies, lessen the overall bacterial load, and improve the freshness of your breath in the morning. However, mouthwashes can be used both at night and in the morning. If you are a frequent user, be sure to select a non-alcoholic mouthwash. Have a look at Habbits alcohol-free mouthwashes here!
Before or after breakfast?
If oil pulling is not something you do every morning, you can use mouthwash in its place. The final step in your hygiene routine should include mouthwash. You've already taken care of some of your dental hygiene by brushing before breakfast. Using a mouthwash 5–10 minutes after breakfast makes sense because you want to ensure that your breath smells fresh before going out. This guarantees that dental hygiene is maintained both before and after breakfast.
When to use the mouthwash?
Using mouthwash immediately after brushing and flossing your teeth is not recommended, as it can reduce the effectiveness of your fluoride toothpaste. It is advisable to wait at least 10-15 minutes after brushing before using a mouthwash to allow your teeth to absorb the benefits of the toothpaste.
Mouthwash can be most effectively used after meals to eliminate germs, bad breath, and food debris that may be stuck in between your teeth. Another ideal time to use mouthwash is before bedtime, as this allows the mouthwash to work throughout the night, promoting better oral hygiene.
If you have a busy schedule and spend a considerable amount of time commuting to work, using mouthwash post-breakfast can help you maintain fresh breath and clean teeth while on the go. Additionally, using mouthwash before social events or important meetings can give you added confidence and freshness.
Finally, using mouthwash just before visiting your dentist can ensure that your teeth are clean and fresh, which can make your dental checkup more comfortable and effective.
How to use a mouthwash?
It is important to carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions when using mouthwash. Typically, the recommended amount of mouthwash to use is 20ml or 3-5 teaspoons, which should be swished around in the mouth for at least 30-45 seconds before spitting it out. Remember not to swallow the mouthwash, as it can be harmful.
If the taste of the mouthwash is too strong for you, consider diluting it initially until you get accustomed to it. Also, give the mouthwash some time to work effectively, so avoid rinsing your mouth for at least 30 minutes after using it.
It's important to note that children under 6 years of age should not be given mouthwash, and children 12 and under should be supervised while using it. Alcohol-free mouthwash, like Teeth Whitening Natural Mouthwash-Charcoal & Spearmint and Sensitivity Relief Natural Mouthwash- Vanilla& Hemp should be used for children.
It is important to understand how to use the mouthwash to yield maximum benefits.
Additional Tips for Optimal Oral Health
In addition to using mouthwash, there are several other things you can do to promote good oral health. These include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
- Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods, as they can contribute to tooth decay.
- Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can also provide additional advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene.
At Habbits, we're committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health. Our mouthwashes are specially formulated to provide a range of benefits for your teeth and gums, and we use only the highest quality natural ingredients. Have a look at them here!