Aren't things like mouthwash and sugar-free chewing gum just as good as brushing?

They can be really helpful additions, but nothing replaces brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.

A fluoride mouthwash can give extra protection against tooth decay, especially at times when you’re not brushing. In some cases, your dental team may also recommend an antibacterial mouthwash to help control plaque and reduce gum disease.

Sugar-free chewing gum can help too, because it stimulates saliva which protects against acid attacks after eating.

But brushing is still the foundation. If you miss that, no amount of mouthwash or sugar-free chewing gum will make up for it.

If you’re finding you rely on mouthwash just to freshen your breath, it’s worth seeing your dental team, as bad breath can be a sign of problems with your teeth, gums, or even your general health.

Quote attribution: Dr Nigel Carter