Mouthwash.. Are you using it correctly?

A question like this may sound stupid but realistically most people do not use mouthwash correctly. I mean it sounds simple, put the mouthwash in your mouth, swish it around, spit it out and then walk away from the sink with a hint of minty freshness on your breath..right? As you know, very few things in life is that simple. There are some unanswered questions that comes with using mouthwash. How much do I use? What kind do I use? How long to I swish? Well take a look at these DO and DON'TS for using mouthwash.

DON'TS:
1. Don't use mouthwash in lieu of brushing and flossing: Mouthwash will not clean your teeth the way that brushing and flossing will.

2. Don't swallow the mouthwash: Mouthwash can make you sick if you swallow it. Most of them contain about 30% of alcohol and although fluoride is great for your teeth, it is not good for your stomach. Swallowing too much mouthwash could poison you.

3. Don't rinse with after immediately after using mouthwash: The cleansing properties of mouthwash will work long after you spit it out. If you rinse with water right after, you will dilute the mouthwash and minimize the effectiveness.

4. Don't use mouthwash with extreme mint flavor on a regular: The extreme mint flavor can dry your mouth and dehydrate you. Plus it may be too strong for some people. You should limit your use of it.

5. Don't let children use mouthwash without adult supervision: As harmless as it may seem, mouthwash can be dangerous for children. As I stated before, it contains 30% alcohol. It can cause alcohol poisoning in children. Check with your child's dentist before you allow them to use mouthwash of any kind.

DO's:
1.  Use about 20ml of mouthwash:  This is the amount that is recommended by most dentists. Just as using too much can harm you, using too little will not do you any good either.

2. Gargle and Swish for about 45 seconds: This will help you break apart any debris left over from brushing and flossing and will give your mouth a good solid fluoride rinse.

3. Use mouthwash that contains fluoride: The fluoride is really good for your teeth and will help you maintain the beautiful smile.

4. Talk to you dentist about your mouthwash use: Your dentist will know best. As them about how much and what kind of mouthwash you should use.

So.. are you using mouthwash correctly? Whether you are or are not, I hope you find these tips useful. When all else fails, ask you dentist. Most dental centers will give you "oral hygiene instructions". This may sound stupid, but they do contain some great tips to help you keep your teeth and maintain a beautiful and health smile.

Happy Brushing!