When dentists talk about oral care, brushing and flossing get most of the attention, while mouthwash may only get mentioned once in a while. That can make it hard to know if using a mouthwash is really all that important. Or, maybe you already know it is, but you don’t know what kind of mouthwash you should pick.

In today’s post, we’d like to take a look at both of these concerns and offer some advice you might find helpful the next time you feel lost in your grocery store or pharmacy’s oral hygiene aisle.

Is it important to use a mouthwash?

Because everyone’s smile is different, we can only answer this question very broadly by saying yes, it is. Of course, brushing and flossing will always be the most effective means of keeping teeth clean, but a good antibacterial mouthwash can give your smile extra protection and can potentially reach corners of your smile that are hard to brush consistently. But even though a mouthwash is like an extra layer of protection, you should never think of it as an alternative to regular care. Brushing and flossing should always come first.

What kind of mouthwash should I choose?

The answer to that question will depend on what your needs are, but a general rule of thumb is to look for an antibacterial mouthwash. That’s because antibacterial mouthwashes are designed to combat bacteria and plaque and protect gums from gingivitis.

But an antibacterial mouthwash isn’t the only option out there. Some mouthwashes use fluoride to help patients strengthen teeth and protect them from decay. Others are used to minimize bad breath, sensitivity, or the appearance of teeth stains. Still others are made to treat symptoms of dry mouth. So to answer that question, you have to know what your individual needs are first.

If you’ve given the question some thought but you still aren’t sure, you can always ask Dr. Giamberardino or a member of our Giamberardino Dental Care team to recommend one to you. We’re always ready to help our patients from Medford, Winchester, Somerville, Malden, Everett, and beyond. Call us today with your questions or to schedule an appointment.