Should I Use Mouthwash?

Images of toothpaste, toothbrush and mouthwash.
Image by Hannah Edgman from Pixabay

Do you use mouthwash regularly, or are you wondering if you should add it to your oral hygiene routine? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Our patients at Queensboro Plaza Dental Care often ask us if mouthwash is actually effective and if they should use it. Here’s our answer: mouthwash is a great addition to a good oral hygiene routine, but it definitely does not substitute for regular brushing and flossing!

How Does Mouthwash Protect My Teeth?

While mouthwash cannot remove oral bacteria and plaque from your teeth the way brushing can, it still provides plenty of benefits. Rinsing with mouthwash can kill oral bacteria, reducing your risk for cavities and gum disease. Mouthwashes containing fluoride can also strengthen your tooth enamel by depositing necessary minerals on the surface of your teeth.

When Should I Use Mouthwash?

To get the most bang for your buck, make sure you’re using mouthwash at the right time. In general, we recommend waiting about 30 minutes after brushing your teeth to rinse with mouthwash. This allows the fluoride in your toothpaste to sit on your teeth. Another great time to use mouthwash is after flossing. This can help rinse food particles, clean your mouth, and freshen your breath. In a pinch, you can quickly rinse with mouthwash after lunch or snacks to clean your teeth – just remember that rinsing is not a substitute for brushing your teeth!

Should My Kids Use Mouthwash?

If you have young children, wait until they’re a little older before introducing mouthwash. In general, kids under 6 should not use mouthwash. There are two reasons for this. First, mouthwash in young children can lead to fluorosis (spots on teeth due to too much fluoride). Second, young children may be prone to swallowing mouthwash. For kids between 6-12, you should supervise their use of mouthwash. If you’re confident that they’re able to rinse and then spit out the mouthwash, it may make a great addition to their oral hygiene routine.

Preventive Dental Care in Long Island City, NY

Your regular professional dental cleanings and exams are another important part of a good oral care routine. During your appointment we can help your family members improve their oral hygiene techniques with tips on how to properly brush and floss. To ask our team any questions about mouthwash or to schedule an appointment, call us today!

Contact Us

Patient Reviews

Karoline PammerKaroline Pammer
20:52 30 Mar 22
Dr. Nguyen and his staff are extremely competent, friendly and professional. He is very thorough and explains everything very clearly. Finally I feel like I am in good hands when it comes to dental care.
Matt SmithMatt Smith
21:18 05 Feb 22
Great overall experience getting a dental cleaning. Very friendly staff, beautifully designed office, and a comfortable experience watching calming Netflix nature programming while in the chair. Complimentary beverages are in the waiting room and so is a little play area for kids.It felt to me that this was a patient-focused family practice as opposed to a cold, corporate dental mill trying to churn through as many patients as possible.I’ll definitely be coming back here for all my dental needs and I highly recommend.
Sundup SherpaSundup Sherpa
22:07 02 Feb 22
Dr. Nguyen and his staff are very welcoming and they provide an excellent experience every time I visit. I’ve only been here twice for annual checkups but would definitely consider and recommend this place to anyone who appreciates good customer experience and a very thoughtful approach to making sure that you feel at home. I have some procedures set up for later in the month and I must actually be the only person in the world actually looking forward to a dentist appointment.
Jayrockem GottemJayrockem Gottem
21:27 09 Nov 21
Great place wonderful staff they will be my go too dentist 100%
shawaf alishawaf ali
22:08 26 Aug 21
Very confident after leaving the office that my teeth are in greatttt hands. Above and beyond patient care. Very informative visits. A sense that they genuinely care about patient concerns. Added helpful guidelines I took home with me to reach dental hygiene goals before my next visits. Highly recommended you leave your old scary dentist ! 😁😁
js_loader
Queensboro Plaza Dental Care

Queensboro Plaza Dental Care