Choosing the right mouthwash can seem like a daunting task with the endless possibilities open to you. Many people think that all mouthwashes are the same, but that’s not true. Let’s decode the mystery and help you find the best mouthwash for your needs with the help of your cosmetic dentist in Walnut Creek CA.

Varieties of Mouthwash

Mouthwash falls into two major categories: therapeutic or cosmetic. Cosmetic mouthwashes act as a breath freshener and don’t serve many other purposes. There is no ingredient that prevents plaque so you receive no protection from gingivitis or cavities.

Therapeutic mouthwashes do all the heavy lifting in the mouth. Generally, they are geared toward either preventing cavities or fighting gum disease.

Choosing the Right Therapeutic Mouthwash

If you are trying to avoid cavities, then you want a mouthwash that contains fluoride. This protects the teeth by adding strength to the enamel. When your enamel is strong, you are protected from the acids that try to destroy the teeth.

This is also a good choice if you tend to drink bottled water which doesn’t contain any fluoride.

If you are trying to avoid gum disease, then you want a mouthwash designed to control gum disease and tartar. Tartar build-up is one of the leading causes of gum-disease bacteria. An accumulation of tartar leads to inflamed and red gums.

You will have trouble finding a mouthwash that adequately addresses both the cavity protection and gum disease aspect of dental care. The most important thing to look for is the ADA’s Seal of Approval to ensure that all the claims made by the manufacturer are true.

The most important way to find the right mouthwash is to ask your cosmetic dentist in Walnut Creek CA for a recommendation. Your dentist is familiar with your specific needs and knows what is going to work best for you. At your next cleaning, speak to the hygienist or dentist for their ideas. Then, the next time you are standing in that overwhelming dental care aisle at the drugstore, you’ll know exactly what products to purchase.

Remember that using a mouthwash does not replace your need for brushing and flossing every day. Use mouthwash strictly as an addition to your healthy oral care routine. For more helpful oral hygiene tips, call Dental Care of Walnut Creek at (925) 937-9017.