Many people use mouthwash as a part of their dental hygiene. And it definitely helps to cut out bad breath and other dental related problems. But do you know exactly what a mouthwash is and what it contains? Are you wondering how to use it effectively to protect your teeth? Here are some tips and facts about mouthwash and their use.Most of the mouthwashes and rinses are designed to be used only after brushing. And if you ask your dentist in London he’ll tell you why. Only a proper tooth brushing technique can remove the food ingredients from your teeth. Mouthwash just acts as a mouth deodorizer with a few additional helpful ingredients to control bacteria in your mouth. But its absolutely necessary to keep you teeth clean with a tooth brush.

There are different types of mouthwashes available in the market.

• Fluoride rinses are very useful to protect against cavities by making the enamel harder.
• Anti-plaque rinses contain ingredients which help to loose and detach plaque from tooth surface as well as the gum line.
• Smoker’s mouthwashes also are available in the market. These will remove tobacco stains from the teeth and mouth.
• Desensitizing mouthwashes are used to control teeth sensitivity and have to be used in conjunctions with desensitizing toothpaste.

Gargle with a mouthwash for 30 seconds. Then spit it without swallowing. Preferably brush your teeth first and then start gargling with a mouthwash. If you are using a medicated mouthwash then it’s a good idea to avoid eating food for at least 30 minutes after the mouthwash. You can use your mouthwash more often. But limit its use to once a day for children as the major ingredient of all mouthwashes is alcohol. If you are using mouthwash to control your bad breath do it only on a short term basis.