How Often Should You Use Mouthwash?

It’s a well-known fact that your dentist in Rocky Mount recommends that everyone brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. But what about mouthwash? Should mouthwash be a part of your everyday oral hygiene routine? If so, how often should you use it? 

Benefits of Mouthwash

Mouthwash can be an effective way to remove hard-to-reach bacteria in the mouth. The benefit of this is that these bacteria can no longer stick around and create cavities. Mouthwash can also be effective at freshening breath. Additionally, there are specialty mouthwashes available by prescription from your dentist in Rocky Mount and may be useful after dental surgery, if you have sensitivity, or suffer from dry mouth. 

How Often Should You Use Mouthwash? 

While it can depend on the specific mouthwash you use and the advice of your dentist, most mouthwashes should be used no more than twice a day. Make sure to read the label and follow the instructions. 

Can You Use Too Much Mouthwash? 

Using mouthwash several times a day for a long period of time may cause more harm than good, especially if you’re using an alcohol-based brand. Alcohol can irritate the soft tissues of the mouth and may also cause dry mouth. Dry mouth may exacerbate some problems that you’re trying to avoid in the first place, such as bad breath and cavity development. Even mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol may cause unwanted side effects such as tooth staining if used too often. Make sure you talk with your dentist in Rocky Mount about any mouthwash you use and how often you use it. 

Side Effects of Mouthwash

Negative side effects of using mouthwash are rare, but they can happen. Some common side effects include: 

• Dry mouth
• Teeth staining
• Sensitivity after using the mouthwash
• Canker sores or mouth sores

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the mouthwash and contact your dentist.

How to Choose the Best Mouthwash

Choosing the best mouthwash for you will depend on your wants and needs. You can select either an alcohol-based option or a non-alcohol-based product. There are even options available that don’t include any artificial coloring. Either way, make sure you choose an option that contains an antibacterial and includes the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

If you’re concerned about whether or not your mouthwash may be doing more harm than good, or you have questions about the best mouthwash for you, never hesitate to schedule an appointment at our Rocky Mount dental office. We’re always happy to help! 

About The Author

Dr. Richard Hunt

Dr. Richard Hunt has served as president of the NC Dental Society and the Dental Foundation of NC. He is the director and past chair of the LD Pankey Foundation and former chair of the Dental Assisting National Board. Dr. Hunt regularly teaches at the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education and the UNC Adams School of Dentistry. An active member of the American Dental Association, he has represented his peers from NC, SC, and VA on the ADA’s Council on Dental Practice.

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