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Mouthwash & Gum Disease

Gum disease is a progressive condition that can affect people of any age, and if left untreated, can manifest into more serious health conditions. Proper dental hygiene is essential to avoid serious damage to gum tissue, which can result in the loss of teeth. If you are concerned about the health of your mouth, consider using a mouthwash to help fight gum disease.

  1. What is Gum Disease?

    • Gum disease is also referred to as gingivitis, which is denoted by swelling and bleeding of the gums. Patients diagnosed with gum disease may also experience bad breath and reddening of the gums due to irritation. Gum disease is caused by a sticky substance known as plaque, which develops after consuming foods that contain starch and sugar, according to the Mayo Clinic. The plaque can quickly turn to tarter; a hard substance that can potentially irritate and infect the gums.

    Why Rinse with a Mouthwash?

    • Plaque can be removed from the teeth by using a soft-bristled toothbrush in combination with non-abrasive toothpaste and daily flossing. But it is also important to use an anti-bacterial mouthwash as part of your oral hygiene regiment. As the University of Maryland Medical Center explains, an anti-bacterial mouthwash can help lower the risks of gum disease and protect teeth from decay.

    Mouthwash Types

    • There are varying types of mouthwashes on the market, but not all of them provide the same protection. For instance, fluoride mouthwashes help to prevent tooth decay but do not necessarily protect the mouth from gum disease. Mouthwashes that contain the ammonium compound cetylpyridinium can be effective in treating halitosis (bad breath), but the New York Times Health Guide reports that these mouthwashes are only moderately effective in treating gingivitis and must be used an hour after brushing your teeth.

    The Most Effective Mouthwash

    • Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine, a germicide, are available by prescription and are the most effective in preventing gum disease. Chlorhexidine mouthwashes are prescribed by a dentist and are recommended for use every time you brush your teeth and when you floss, Drugs.com reports.

    Warnings

    • Delta Dental reports that most mouthwashes contain a high alcohol content. In fact, some mouthwashes can contain as much as 30 percent alcohol. Mouthwash can be lethal to small children; especially, if it is ingested in large quantities. Keep mouthwash and any other products that contain alcohol out of the reach of children.

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