Not just getting rid of bad breath, this is another reason you should prepare mouthwash at home Mouthwash has long been known to eliminate bad breath. But in addition, it turns out that this drug also has benefits for maintaining healthy teeth and mouth. The function of mouthwash certainly varies, according to the type.
The types are generally divided into two, namely drugs that function as cosmetics and function as treatment. For cosmetics, this drug can usually keep the breath fresh, but there are no chemically or biologically active substances. For example, these products do not kill bacteria that cause bad breath. While mouthwash treatment is the opposite.
The mouthwash used for treatment contains active substances that will control or reduce conditions such as bad breath, gingivitis or gingivitis, plaque, and tooth decay. This type of drug requires a doctor’s prescription. But there are also several types that are sold freely.
Get to know the content of mouthwash to know its function and side effects
According to a report from The Pharmaceutical Journal, mouthwash that has a variety of active substances is divided into several types. The content of different active substances will have different functions and even side effects. The following are the active substances commonly found in mouthwash according to their function.
Chlorhexidine as an antiseptic mouthwash
Chlorhexidine with a content of 0.2 percent is commonly used as a mouthwash prescribed by doctors. This type of drug can kill bacteria, fungi, and spores. This drug is used for example during or after oral surgery.
It is also used for halitosis or severe bad breath. Usually this disease is caused by colonies of sulfur-producing bacteria that have spread on the tongue.
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Common side effects of using chlorhexidine include browning of your teeth and dentures or dentures, increased tartar, temporary loss of the tongue’s ability to taste, and dry taste in your mouth (xerostomia).
Cetylpyridinimun chloride, thymol, menthol and methyl salicylate to prevent dental plaque. Drugs that inhibit the formation of plaque on the teeth have various active substances that work together to help each other. Cetylpyridinium chloride is an active substance that belongs to the category of antibacterial that will kill bacteria in the mouth.
Delmopinol hydrochloride interacts with the tooth surface and prevents bacteria from adhering to it. While essential oils such as thymol, eucalyptol, and menthol will be able to enter the bacterial cell wall and prevent bacterial enzymes from producing substances that can make bad breath.
This drug is better used not in conjunction with a toothbrush because it will reduce the effect of fluoride in toothpaste. In addition, this type of drug is more suitable for daily use compared to antiseptic mouthwash containing chlorhexidine. For those of you who often experience dry mouth, it is recommended to use a drug with this active substance instead of an antiseptic mouthwash.
Fluoride to prevent tooth decay
Mouthwashes that contain fluoride are known as preventive mouthwashes because they prevent tooth decay. In some cases it can even help treat the early symptoms of dental caries.
This type of medicine will be prescribed by a doctor to those of you who are at high risk of having problems with dental caries. The risk factors for dental caries are frequent eating of sugary foods, dry mouth, and you who wear braces or stirrups.
Read the instructions for use for optimal results
As with other health products, make sure you read the directions for use on mouthwash. Brenner Dental Care points out several points that need attention. Some products need to be shaken before you rinse your mouth. Most mouthwashes are not recommended for children seven years of age and under unless prescribed by a doctor. This medicine can be swallowed by children.
Gargle immediately after eating will help inhibit the growth of bacteria and bad breath. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after using a fluoride-containing mouthwash. Fluoride takes time to strengthen your teeth.
Do you still need to brush your teeth after using mouthwash?
Although the active substances above have many benefits, brushing your teeth regularly is much more important. Mouthwash works to help, not replace your brushing habits. Therefore, make sure you keep brushing your teeth regularly.
