How often and when should mouthwash be used?

Using mouthwash every morning, you are likely to get good results after a few weeks. Dentists recommend the use of mouthwash at least once a day because it kills bacteria, prevents tooth decay, gingivitis, mouth infections, and refreshes your breath.

Mouthwash can be used before or after brushing your teeth. However, avoid eating or brushing for at least half an hour after using mouthwash.

Some people are in the habit of using a mouthwash before brushing, swishing it about for about a minute, rinsing the mouth with water, and then brushing the teeth. This is not recommended, because the germs will remain in your mouth since your toothbrush already has germs on it.

It is best to use mouthwash after every main meal. Some people mouthwash twice a day after brushing. Mouthwash after brushing removes the surface matter that might stop the mouthwash getting between your teeth. It takes out plaque from your teeth and helps the mouthwash to work effectively. Gargling for about 30 seconds will destroy the displaced bacteria to give you a healthy and clean mouth. It is advisable to use mouthwash within an hour after brushing with toothpaste. But remember not to use the mouthwash immediately after brushing, as the cationic present in the mouthwash will wipe out the usefulness of the toothpaste.

Mouthwash is most helpful when used in the middle of the day, for instance after lunch. This is because the fluoride in it can get mixed into your tooth structure. You can also use it in the evening and whenever you suspect bad breath.

Dentists usually recommend using mouthwash for a few seconds at least, before and after brushing both in the morning and at bedtime. If you have a dry mouth, the alcohol content in the mouthwash must be kept to a minimum by diluting it or swishing for a very short time. You can use mouthwash for 10 to 15 seconds for a satisfactory effect.