Mouthwash 101

Mouthwash has been around since the beginning of the Roman empire thousands of years ago. Today, many people include mouthwash in their dental routine to feel fresh and clean. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri is passionate about oral health, including the importance of mouthwash. Here’s everything you need to know about mouthwash.

Mouthwash Can’t Cure Bad Breath

Halitosis or bad breath refers to the condition where bacteria grow in your body or mouth, resulting in stinky breath. While mouthwash does transform your breath into a minty fresh, it only masks the smelly odor temporarily. Bad breath is typically an underlying symptom of many health problems such as poor hygiene, gum disease, infection, or chronic illnesses. 

Mouthwash Doesn’t Replace Brushing or Flossing

Contrary to popular belief, rinsing your mouth with mouthwash doesn’t mean ditching the toothbrush or floss. Mouthwash is an addition to your dental routine. Not everyone uses mouthwash, but everyone should be brushing and flossing their teeth regularly for good oral health. 

Mouthwash Has Different Types

Mouthwash comes in two varieties: cosmetic and therapeutic. Cosmetic mouthwashes come in several different flavors and nice scents for the temporary benefit of masking bad breath. For patients with gingivitis or dry mouth,  Dr. Haeri of Los Angeles, CA prescribes therapeutic mouthwash. Therapeutic mouthwash can only be bought with a dentist’s prescription, so contact our office today for an appointment. 

Mouthwash Is Not for Children

Fluoride is a common ingredient in mouthwash. But increased fluoride exposure leads to fluorosis, a condition that affects teeth while they’re developing permanent molars. Another reason why it’s not advised for children under six years to use mouthwash is the potential to swallow the product.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Importance of Dental Hygiene

Kids hear it, the neighbor hears it, grandma hears it: take care of your teeth! It goes for everyone, especially if you are going through orthodontic treatment. Avoid complications by brushing and flossing daily and seeing your dentist yearly for professional cleanings. Suzanne Haeri DDS in Los Angeles, CA, takes pride in educating patients about the importance of proper oral hygiene. Help us help you keep your smile looking good for years to come!

Did you know that there is a connection between oral health and overall health? Sometimes what’s going on inside your mouth can be an indicator of what’s going on inside your body, and vice versa. Mayo Clinic says “Studies suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases.” Some diseases, like diabetes and HIV/AIDS, have the potential to lower the body’s resistance to infection, causing oral issues to be more severe in patients afflicted with these diseases. On the other hand, patients with poor dental hygiene are at a higher risk for problems like cardiovascular disease or pneumonia.

For good oral hygiene, try to:

-Brush and floss twice a day

-Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing

-Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fibrous foods to act as “nature’s toothbrush”

-Limit sugar and acidic beverages

-Replace your toothbrush every three months

-Schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist

-Avoid chewing or smoking tobacco products

Suzanne Haeri DDS practices at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90035. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit suzannehaeridds.com or call 310-657-2200.

 

Adding Mouthwash To Your Dental Routine

Dr. Suzanne Haeri highly suggests using mouthwash on a daily basis. The solution reaches all areas of the mouth, including the hard-to-reach places! It’s the perfect supplement to your brushing and flossing routine. Mouthwash keeps your breath fresh and your teeth clean. Learn more by contacting our office in Los Angeles, CA.

 

Cosmetic and therapeutic are the two mouthwash types. Choosing between them depends entirely on what you need. If you’re looking to clear up your breath, invest in some cosmetic brands. Therapeutic mouthwash is targeted at minimizing dental problems like cavities, gingivitis, and plaque.

 

Follow these general instructions when using mouthwash:

-After examining the label, pour out the recommended liquid dosage.

-Pour it into your mouth. Swish it around vigorously. Do this for at least 30 seconds.

-Spit it into the sink when you’re done. Do not swallow it. Mouthwash contains chemicals that are harmful when ingested.

-Just like getting your teeth cleaned, avoid drinking or eating for 30 minutes after.

 

New to the mouthwash game? Feeling a little overwhelmed by all the different choices? Let your Los Angeles dentist guide you! The important part of buying a new brand of mouthwash is understanding the benefits. If you’re looking to prevent cavities, focus on a product that offers protection from dental decay. This goes for all mouthwashes. Buy a brand that works for you! For patients with certain sensitivities to dental products, pay close attention to the ingredients. Invest in a more natural brand or one that advertises as sensitivity-free. Another important tip: certain mouthwashes contain alcohol. Keep that in mind when buying for others.

 

Mouthwash is a quick and easy way to keep your mouth feeling great! It’s a helpful part of your oral care routine. Just don’t use it as a replacement for brushing and flossing. Of course, always remember to schedule your six-month checkup with Dr. Suzanne Haeri. To set up your appointment at our Los Angeles office, visit our website or call 310-657-2200.