The short answer – of course! Mouthwash is recommended as part of your regular oral healthcare routine. In this video, Dr. Jason Berk answers some common questions about using mouthwash during braces treatment.
Mouthwash is an Excellent Addition to Brushing and Flossing
Mouthwash is an important part of your regular oral healthcare routine. Mouthwash is a liquid rinse containing cleansing, freshening minerals like fluoride to freshen your mouth and cleanse hard-to-reach areas around your teeth.
Because braces create lots of potential areas for plaque and bacteria to build up, it is extra important to clean your teeth thoroughly every day . Brushing twice a day and flossing every night are the most important parts of your oral healthcare routine during braces.
But mouthwash is an excellent supplement to brushing and flossing. The liquid format offers an advantage in reaching all parts of your mouth: as you swish it between your teeth, it’s covering all surfaces in cleaning minerals!
Mouthwash contains bacteria-killing ingredients that further destroy plaque and other bacterial build-ups. This helps keep your teeth clean and reduces the potential for staining or discoloration. Furthermore, mouthwash can fight bad breath, by washing away bacteria. Patients with gingivitis or other dental issues should consult a dentist for treatment, since mouthwash alone may not be enough.
Mouthwash alone is not a substitute for brushing and flossing . Instead, use it every night after brushing and flossing for comprehensive at-home oral hygiene.
Which Mouthwash is Best for Use with Braces?
There are many kinds of mouthwash, most of which are compatible with braces. You should look for a mouthwash that is fortified with fluoride, which is clinically proven to help fight tooth decay.
There are also certain mouthwash brands that are specially designed for use with braces.
These Mouthwash Brands Work Well with Braces
Periogen Oral Rinse
Prevents dental tartar
ACT Braces Care Mouthwash
Freshens breath
Crest 3D Mouthwash
Remove surface stains
Listerine Cool Mint
Kills 99.9% of germs
Colgate Mouth Sore Rinse
Removes oral debris
A Proper Oral Health Routine Will Keep You Smiling for Years After Your Braces Treatment
While your orthodontist is using braces to straighten your teeth, you play an important role by caring for your teeth!
Regular brushing and flossing will keep your mouth bacteria and plaque-free, by removing food debris and other build-ups every night. This will also keep your breath fresh, and your teeth clean and white, preventing staining and discoloration.
Mouthwash is an excellent, safe, and effective addition to your oral healthcare routine. Choose a fluoride-fortified mouthwash, and rinse once each night in addition to brushing and flossing. You’ll keep your braces clean, your breath fresh, and your smile sparkling for a lifetime !
