Does mouthwash make that much of a difference when it comes to your oral care routine? Can you use an antiseptic mouth rinse instead of flossing?
Flossing physically disrupts plaque biofilm, which is a sticky substance that harbors bacteria, acids, and bacterial byproducts. It also reaches below the gumlines when used correctly. However, mouthwash will only rinse away already loose bacteria and does not reach down into deep periodontal pockets. For those areas, flossing is an absolute must.
If you’re undergoing periodontal treatment for active gum disease, your dentist or specialist may prescribe a concentrated mouth rinse to use each day for two weeks. It’s important that you use this medication as directed. The ingredients will help eliminate disrupted, disease-causing bacteria, to establish a healthy oral environment that you can better manage between professional cleanings.
Nothing replaces brushing and flossing. Manual, physical removal of food debris and plaque is essential to a healthy smile and combatting gum disease. Simply rinsing with any liquid—whether tap water or an antiseptic mouthwash—will not provide the same results.
However, rinsing does provide a helpful final step to your daily home care routine when it comes to fresher breath. But only once the thicker layer of bacteria is cleaned away first. Any loose or residual buildup can be rinsed away afterward.
Some types of antiseptic mouthwash work better than others when it comes to managing gum health. If you are prone to dry mouth, try to avoid those containing alcohol. A fluoride rinse is ideal for individuals with gum recession or high risk for tooth decay.
Always talk to your dentist or periodontist about your oral care products to make your hygiene routine as effective as possible.