mouthwash

The Difference Between Mouthwash And Fluoride Rinse

One of the keys things you’ll need to know when considering whether to make a mouthwash or a fluoride mouth rinse part of your oral care routine is the differences between the two.

Mouthwash

A mouthwash freshens your breath, but it doesn’t clean your teeth. Mouthwashes are not a replacement for a regular routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing, although they can help wash away excess food particles in your mouth. A standard over-the-counter mouthwash contains breath-freshening ingredients such as mint flavoring, but it doesn’t contain fluoride unless the label says so.

Fluoride Rinse

A fluoride mouth rinse doesn’t remove plaque, it works by protecting your tooth from acids produced by the bacterial plaque, and it is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. The fluoride in a fluoride rinse incorporates into the enamel coating of your teeth, and it can help protect against cavities in people who are susceptible.

What You Need To Remember

Remember, a mouthwash or a fluoride mouth rinse should be used after you finish your tooth brushing and flossing routine. Also, keep in mind that mouthwashes or mouth rinses are not recommended for children younger than 6 years old, because kids that age may be inclined to swallow the rinses rather than spit them out.

Learn more at crest.com

Pennsylvania Dental Group
UNIVERSITY CITY PRACTICE

Call: (215) 387-0883
3700 Market Street, Suite 101
Philadelphia, PA 19104

CENTER CITY PRACTICE

Call: (215) 545-6334
1740 South Street, Suite 504
Philadelphia, PA 19146

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