Don't Use Mouthwash Regularly

Toothsmith

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2546092/Mouthwashes-raise-risk-heart-attack-strokes-Antiseptic-gargles-kill-good-bacteria-help-blood-pressure-down.html

OK - it's from the Daily Mail, and I really can't back up all the claims in this article, but.......

It does back up what me and most of the other dentists on this board have been trying to get across for years.

Mouthwashes have their use for specific infections or conditions when used for a specific length of time and recommended by your dentist or hygienist.

Buying and using them daily for no particular reason, or as an alternative to brushing properly, or seeking regular dental care, is not good for your dental health (or general health if you believe this article).

Don't buy them if you've not been told to use them (by a dental professional, not an advert on the telly!)

brook2jack

What there is good scientific evidence for is growing bacterial resistance and growing cases of allergies which have caused death, to chlorhexidine the active ingredient in corsodyl , which is also used as a skin scrub and to disinfect hospital instruments.

There is also good evidence to show mouthwash should not be used within an hour of brushing as it interfere with toothpaste action.

There is also a plethora of evidence to show that good tooth brushing and the use of floss/tepe brushes daily will treat and prevent effectively gum disease yet less than 28% of people in the UK floss at all and less than 30% brush effectively.

Don't use any mouthwash unless advised to by a dentist (normally it will be for a short time only) and learn how to brush and floss/clean between teeth effectively.

98% of mouthwashes are classed as cosmetics because there is no proper clinical evidence they are effective. Their popularity is a masterpiece of advertising over science.

System

Have you seen the mouthwash adverts, on all the time, i'm afraid these companies are just out to make profit.

A good flossing and rinse with water will be perfect.

maddiemay

So pleased to see this thread, I have never completely used a whole bottle of mouthwash in my life, having occasionally bought and used some for a short while if having a sore mouth and then noticing it lurking in the bathroom months later and throwing it away. Now if I get the occasional sore spot I rinse with a little salt water, open to suggestions if I should be using something better.

However, I have been concerned by the number of people that I come across who use it daily. I also was unaware that it could negate the good effects of toothpaste if used too soon afterwards.

savemoney

I rarely use it myself just on occasions like when I had a abscess last year and awaiting treatment

Ilona

I have never bought this stuff. A good brush and floss suits me.
Ilona

**professor~yaffle**

Someone on yahoo was saying that putting mouthwash on your hair and leaving it for an hour kills off headlice!


I very occasionally use mouthwash if my gum has got a bit infected (it's less smelly than using TCP diluted, which is another alternative) but usually I don't bother buying any.

TricycleGangsta

I don't use mouthwash because I've seen these type of studies before, but my dentist said it was safe to use it every day. *shrug*

donnac2558

Guilty! I use the Boots own brand sensitive stuff, before I clean my teeth and don't rinse the toothpaste out afterwards. I just worry about my breath smelling( I have stood talking to others who brush etc and then get a whiff of bad breath from them), the wash makes you breath feel really fresh.

When I use up my two bottles I will try without.

Sally22_2

I am currently using a mouthwash but I have just had braces fitted and my dentist recommended I use it at lunchtimes. I got it directly from the dentist but now I know which one he wants me to use I will see if I can get it cheaper in the shops.

MoneyMate

BUT THINK OF OTHERS ?