Don’t Choose Wrong, IPB University Dentist Reveals Types of Mouthwash and Their Uses

Chairpersonof the IPB University Health Unit, drg Titik Nurhayati, said that dental care plays an important role in maintaining oral health and ensuring teeth can function properly.

Taking care of dental health properly and correctly can be done with the habit of brushing your teeth twice a day, namely in the morning after breakfast and at night before bed, using the right technique and fluoride toothpaste. 

“This effort involves a series of actions, including brushing twice a day with effective techniques, using fluoride toothpaste, rinsing your mouth with mouthwash after brushing your teeth, and regular check-ups to the dentist every six months,” said drg Titik.

In addition, the use of mouthwash after brushing teeth has a dual function, namely cleaning food debris and bacteria that may be missed when brushing teeth, while providing additional protection for overall oral health.

She added that mouthwash comes with various ingredients that are tailored to the specific needs of its users. Some common types of mouthwash include:

• Fluoride Mouthwash: Effective in preventing cavities by strengthening the outer layer of teeth or enamel. Highly recommended for people with xerostomia (dry mouth) as this condition triggers faster bacterial development.

• Gum Inflammation Mouthwash: Contains chlorhexidine, an antiseptic that works against bacteria in the mouth and helps relieve bleeding in the gums. Use should be as recommended by your doctor and not for long-term use.

• Whitening Mouthwash: Contains hydrogen peroxide, an oxidizing agent that has disinfectant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes the effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide in helping to whiten teeth. However, its use must be under a doctor’s prescription at a concentration of no more than 1.5 percent.

• Mouthwash for Dental Plaque: Studies show that cetylpyridinium chloride contained in mouthwash is effective in reducing dental plaque with less side effects than chlorhexidine.

“The choice of mouthwash should be tailored to individual needs, such as overcoming cavities, gum inflammation, whitening teeth, or removing plaque,” explains Drg Titik.

Nevertheless, she suggested that mouthwash should not be used directly after brushing teeth so that the effectiveness of fluoride in toothpaste is not reduced. When gargling, do it for 30 seconds and do not swallow the mouthwash liquid.

“The ingredients in mouthwash are generally safe to use as long as you follow the dosage and recommendations from your doctor. Routine oral health checks to the dentist every six months is a highly recommended step,” he concluded. (AS) (IAAS/Ard)