Common Misconception About Mouthwash: Supplement to Brushing or Substitute?

Mouthwash can help reduce dental plaque or prevent tooth decay in certain conditions, but it is not a replacement for brushing and flossing.

Fatemeh Ahmadi, a faculty member of the Department of Pharmaceutics of the Faculty of Pharmacy, pointed out that all mouthwashes do not have the same function, and said: Some mouthwashes are mostly used to create a feeling of freshness and temporarily reduce the unpleasant smell of the mouth, while others contain effective substances designed to treat or prevent oral and dental diseases. He named one of the most well-known medicinal compounds in some mouthwashes as "Chlorhexidine" and added: This substance helps to reduce the microbial load and control dental plaque by affecting a wide range of microorganisms in the mouth, and may be prescribed by a dentist in certain conditions, including some gum diseases or after some dental procedures.

Emphasizing that chlorhexidine is different from a normal deodorizing mouthwash, Ahmadi continued: This product is not supposed to be included in the daily routine of oral and dental care without restrictions and for a long time, and the duration and method of its use should be considered.

He explained about the consequences of long-term or incorrect use of chlorhexidine: changes in the color of the surface of the teeth and tongue, temporary changes in the sense of taste, and increased formation of some deposits on the teeth are among the complications that may be caused by the long-term or incorrect use of this substance; Therefore, it is better not to use it long-term without the advice of a dentist or pharmacist.

Stating that the strength of a product does not necessarily mean that it is more suitable for daily use, Ahmadi said: Mouthwash should be chosen according to the individual's needs and with a specific purpose, and one type of product cannot be considered suitable for all people and all conditions.

Referring to mouthwashes containing fluoride, he said: Fluoride plays an important role in preventing tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel and helping the process of restoring minerals, and some mouthwashes containing fluoride can be used as part of a caries prevention program under certain conditions.

Ahmadi emphasized: mouthwash containing fluoride is not a substitute for brushing with fluoride toothpaste and dental floss, but in the right people, it can complement the usual oral and dental care. He also said about the time of use of some mouthwashes containing fluoride: In the case of some of these products, it is recommended not to use them immediately after brushing your teeth, because rinsing the mouth can reduce the amount of fluoride remaining from the toothpaste. Therefore, it is important to follow the instructions for using the product.

Pointing out that using mouthwash to remove bad breath does not always mean treating its cause, Ahmadi added: If bad breath persists, its cause should be investigated. Because factors such as plaque accumulation and gum disease, tooth decay, dry mouth and some other conditions can contribute to unpleasant mouth odor.

He continued: In such a situation, the use of deodorizing products may only reduce the smell for a while and is not a substitute for investigating and treating the main cause.

A member of the Faculty of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, emphasized the necessity of using mouthwashes correctly and said: It is better to consider mouthwash as a specialized product that should be used for a specific purpose and with the correct method, and consuming more of it does not necessarily mean more effect.

Ahmadi pointed out: In the case of mouthwashes containing medicinal ingredients such as chlorhexidine, it is better for people to seek advice from a dentist or pharmacist about the reason for use, the duration of treatment, and the correct way to use it before long-term use.

He reminded: mouthwash is not supposed to replace the toothbrush and in the case of medicated mouthwashes, consuming more does not necessarily mean more effect.