What You Should Look for in a Mouthwash

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We have seen many patients at Dental Designs of Bountiful who’ve been misled through media and advertising into thinking that using an antiseptic mouthwash was just as effective as flossing. We’ve had to correct them on this. Flossing is the best way to clean plaque and food particles from between the teeth and gum line. After you floss, it’s recommended that you end your oral cleaning routine by rinsing the mouth with an antiseptic to eliminate remaining bacteria and wash away leftover food particles.

When you are picking out a mouthwash from the store, you should always check to see if it is an antiseptic brand. Some forms of mouthwash contain no bacteria killing antiseptic materials, and are solely designed to help freshen breath. It’s also good to see if your antiseptic mouthwash contains fluoride, in order to help strengthen your enamel.

In addition, you should also look over the label to make sure it has the American Dental Association’s Seal of Approval. The ADA takes great care in researching and testing oral care products to make sure they are safe and effective for consumer use. You are advised not to purchase any oral care product that does not contain this seal.

For any questions regarding your mouthwash, please call 801-295-7171 to talk to us at Dental Designs of Bountiful. We are also available to schedule you for a regular dental appointment in Bountiful, Utah, with your dentist, Dr. David Duke at a time convenient for you.