As family dentists, Dr. Tom Villani and Dr. Richard Kondrat often mention how important it is to brush, floss, and rinse with an oral rinse or mouthwash on a daily basis. While most of our patients understand how to brush and floss their teeth properly, some don’t know how to go about choosing an oral rinse that fits their unique dental needs. Today, your Brighton dental health care providers want to explain how to choose the right mouthwash for you.
There are three types of mouth rinses:
- Fluoride mouth rinses
- Mouth rinses to freshen breath
- Anti-gingivitis/anti-plaque mouth rinses
Fluoride-Containing Mouth Rinses
Because it helps prevent tooth decay by strengthening your tooth enamel, fluoride is crucial to the health of your tooth. Fluoride is found in most toothpastes and tap water, however, so people with healthy smiles don’t usually require fluoridated mouth rinses.
People who are prone to cavities and those who have xerostomia (dry mouth) should use a fluoride mouth rinse on a daily basis. If Dr. Kondrat or Dr. Villani feel that a higher fluoride intake will improve the health of your teeth, they will discuss treatment options with you at your next dental checkup and cleaning appointment. (more…)
