The American Dental Association recommends using alcohol-free mouthwashes to rinse your mouth starting no earlier than age six. Why age six? Because children under the age of six are more likely to swallow the mouthwash.
In general, there are two types of mouthwash: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes offer a temporary benefit of reducing bad breath. Therapeutic mouthwashes, however, offer many more benefits and are what we recommend as part of your oral health care. These mouthwashes:
- Kill bacteria
- Reduce plaque (bacteria on the tooth’s surface including between teeth)
- Freshen breath
- Reduce your risk of cavities
- Can contain fluoride to reduce tooth decay
- Reduce gingivitis (early gum disease)
- Slow tartar growth
- Sometimes require a prescription
When you choose an over-the-counter product to rinse your mouth, make sure it has the American Dental Association’s seal of approval which confirms the product has been tested, safe and effective for oral health.
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