Incorporating a mouth rinse into your oral care routine offers a number of important benefits. While most people are told to brush and floss their teeth twice a day, the use of a mouth rinse is often overlooked. However, adding a mouth rinse into your normal oral care routine can improve your smile in more ways than one. Keep reading to learn more about these benefits and why you should use a mouth rinse.
PREVENTS BAD BREATH
Bad breath is an all-too-common condition that affects 35-45% of the population. Some people assume this condition is nothing more than a mere annoyance, but bad breath indicates the presence of bacteria. When small food particles become stuck inside your mouth, it encourages the growth of bacteria. In addition to creating bad breath, these bacteria colonies may also promote cavities and gum disease. The good news is that you can fight bad breath through the use of a mouth rinse. Swishing an ADA-approved mouth rinse around in your mouth for 30 seconds kills up to 99% of germs, fighting bad breath at its roots.
REDUCES PLAQUE BUILDUP
Mouth rinses can also reduce the presence of plaque. No matter how frequently you brush your teeth, small amounts of plaque will inevitably form on them. This soft yet sticky layer contains millions of bacteria, placing your teeth at risk for decay. The most effective solution for plaque buildups is a professional cleaning from your local dentist, but using a mouth rinse will may also aid in its reduction.
REDUCES GUM DISEASE
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 1 out of 2 Americans 30 years of age or older suffer from gum disease. Gum disease is characterized by chronic inflammation and bleeding of the gums, which can lead to tissue and bone loss if left untreated. mouth rinses can fight gum disease by killing the bad germs that promote it.
REDUCES TOOTH DECAY
If you still need another reason to use a mouth rinse, here’s one: it helps prevent tooth decay. Tooth decay is a serious problem not only in children, but adults as well. Over 90% of Americans between 20 and 64 have fillings in one or more of their teeth. Using an ADA-approved mouth rinse, however, can protect your teeth from decay. Avoid any mouth rinse that does not carry the official ADA seal. To schedule an appointment with one of our dentists at Little Rock Family Dental Care, contact us online or call us at 501-954-9900.