Remember years ago, when mouthwash companies told us that burning pain of our mouthwash was a good thing and we should tough it out to get the benefits of a cleaner and healthier mouth? We all did it because we wanted healthier teeth and gums. That was how it worked right? Not exactly. While mouthwash is a good way to kill bacteria and sanitize the mouth it does too good of a job. It cannot distinguish good bacteria from bad, and yes there are good bacteria in your mouth! Most of the common washes are antibacterial mouthwashes and since these can wipe out all of the good bacteria, it opens the door for oral problems simply because bad bacteria grow back faster than the good! This is why many people are looking for healthier options for mouthwash and why you may want to take a close look at the mouthwash choices in your area.
The Problem With Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwashes can do more harm than just wiping out the good bacteria in your mouth. They can affect other areas of the body by eliminating other sources of beneficial bacteria. One of the most common places is the good bacteria that live in your stomach and digestive tract that help with digestion and nutrient absorption. The start of the digestive tract technically is the mouth so if you use too much antibacterial mouthwash or swallow any of it during use it can get into the stomach and kill the good bacteria there. Loss of beneficial intestinal bacteria is why we feel so sick with as stomach bug and why it can take so long to get over it- we have to rebuild that good bacteria so our digestive tract works like it should again. Mouthwash can do the same which is another reason many people are considering other healthier options for mouthwash. If you have been experiencing frequent stomach issues not tied to any other condition, you may want to consider the mouthwash choices in your area and see if switching to someone more natural is a good option for you.
Better Options for Oral Health
The best way to achieve good oral health and to keep your breath smelling nice, your teeth bright white, and your gums healthy is to follow good brushing and flossing practices each and everyday. You really don’t need mouthwash unless you have major underlying dental needs that have to be addressed. But maybe you’re the type of person who loves their mouthwash routine and just feel better with that clean feeling in your mouth. Take heart, there is a way to get the mouthwash feel without the damage most modern washes bring. There are a few products that aren’t as harmful and not as expensive. So if you still want to use a wash and enjoy that experience, then take the time to search for some of the healthier options for mouthwash choices in your area.
What to Avoid
To avoid the harmful effects of antibiotic and chemically laden mouthwashes, look for something made with natural ingredients and that does not contain any of these ingredients:
- Alcohol
- Chlorine dioxide
- Chlorhexidine
- Cocamidopropyl betaine
- Parabens
- Poloxamer 407
- Formaldehyde
- Saccharin
Healthier Options for Mouthwash
There are likely many mouthwash choices in your area, so many that you probably have no clue what to look for or what the real difference in any of them are. If you want some expert care and advice when it comes to not only the mouthwashes you use but your overall dental care routine, come by and let Kopp Dental show you the difference we can make for your smile! We can help you find the healthier options for mouthwash and help you preserve your bright, healthy smile! Call today to set up your appointment.