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What is a
mouthwash?
A mouthwash is a solution that can be used as part of your
regular oral hygiene routine, like brushing and flossing. It
helps to prevent plaque formation as well as to treat certain
specific conditions like gum infections, bad breath and
ulcers.
Medicated
and non-medicated.
The Non-medicated variety are those available over-the-counter
and can be used regularly in the prevention of dental diseases
and the maintenance of oral health.
The Medicated mouthwashes are usually prescribed by the
dentist for specific conditions like gum infections, ulcers,
or after gum surgery. These may contain Chlorhexidine
gluconate having pronounced antiseptic properties. This
inhibits the formation of plaque and calculus, thus helping to
maintain oral health in those individuals having an excessive
tendency to form plaque. These mouthwashes are to be used only
for a short time, as prescribed by your dentist, as prolonged
use may cause undesirable side effects.
Other mouthwashes available may contain chemicals like
Stannous Fluoride, Cetylpyridinium Chloride, Sanguinarine,
Sodium Benzoate, etc. These may be classified as either
medicated or non-medicated, as their constituents are such
that no prescription is required, but their use cannot be
decided on by the patient himself.
Many people like to use a mouthwash to control their bad
breath. This may be done on a short-term basis, but is
unlikely to cure the underlying cause. The only way to rid
yourself of bad breath is to get yourself examined to
determine the cause and undergo the required specific
treatment.
One important variety of mouthwash is the one containing
fluoride. This kind can be used by individuals having an
excessive tendency to tooth decay, or those living in areas
having inadequate fluoride in their water supply. This method
of fluoride enhancement is simple and very effective in
preventing tooth decay. |
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