Brushing twice a day and flossing before bed – this has been the golden oral hygiene rule we all grew up with.
However, as per the professional opinion of a revered dentist in Folkestone, relying only on brushing and flossing is not enough, especially these days.
Why?
Our diet has changed significantly. We are consuming boatloads of processed foods filled with refined sugar, chemicals, and starch. All of these wreak havoc on your teeth. Additionally, brushing and flossing only cleans the teeth. Your oral hygiene routine should also include cleaning your gums, inner cheek walls, the roof of your mouth, and your tongue. If you do not clean these surfaces of your mouth, the bacteria from them will recolonise your clean teeth.
Hence, your oral hygiene routine failed to yield positive results.
What’s the solution then?
You need to start using mouthwash alongside flossing and brushing.
How Mouthwash Helps?
Using mouthwash offers several benefits, as follows.
By Targeting Bacteria On All Oral Surfaces
As the name suggests, a mouthwash literally washes over all internal surfaces of your mouth. Additionally, the active ingredients in a top-shelf mouthwash help neutralise harmful bacteria. The outcome is that your chances of ever contracting gingivitis decrease significantly. Additionally, alcohol-based mouthwashes help to keep your breath fresh for hours.
Fluoride Also Helps
Modern mouthwashes are fortified with multiple active ingredients, including alcohol and benzoic acid. One of those active ingredients is fluoride. The primary function of fluoride in a mouthwash is to protect your teeth from cavities.
How does fluoride do that?
Well, it deposits itself on the weakened sections of your teeth’s enamel, thereby protecting them from acidic food items.
Caveat: Mouthwash Usage Has A Specific Time
Although there are plenty of upsides to using mouthwash, there is a caveat as well. For example, you should not use your preferred mouthwash immediately after brushing your teeth.
Why?
Well, your favourite toothpaste leaves a concentrated amount of fluoride on your tooth surfaces. Using a mouthwash just after brushing washes away this protective layer.
Experts recommend using mouthwash during the day, especially after meals, sugary drinks, or acidic foods like oranges.
You Still Need To Visit Your Dentist
You might have the strictest oral hygiene routine. You might never have missed brushing, flossing, or using your preferred mouthwash. But none of these steps can keep you safe from the harmful effects of using the wrong dental hygiene product.
Dental hygiene products have come a long way since their invention. The shelves of departmental stores are stacked with dental hygiene products. Some toothpastes help with tooth sensitivity. Then there are alcohol-free mouthwashes for people who cannot bear the sting of alcohol based mouthwashes.
How can you be so sure that the dental hygiene products you are using are perfect for you?
You would need to consult with a revered dentist in Folkestone.
Why?
Well, a dentist in Folkestone who has been helping people in the region for a while can help you by offering a bespoke oral hygiene routine. They can also take a look at your teeth and gums in a bid to ascertain that you are in your prime health.
If you are convinced and ready for your appointment, then contact Cheriton Dental Practice today.