Mouthwash can be a helpful extra step in your daily oral care routine.

It does not replace brushing or cleaning between your teeth, but it can give added protection.

Used correctly, mouthwash can:

• Help reduce plaque.
• Support healthier gums.
• Provide extra fluoride to strengthen teeth.
• Freshen breath.

Different mouthwashes are designed for different needs, such as gum health, tooth decay prevention, or sensitive teeth.

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Mouthwash and gum health

Healthy gums should not bleed. Bleeding gums are usually a sign that plaque is not being removed well enough.

A fluoride mouthwash that is clinically proven to reduce plaque can help support gum health by:

• Reducing the amount of plaque bacteria in the mouth.
• Helping gums become healthier when used alongside good brushing and interdental cleaning.

Mouthwash is an additional support, not a substitute for brushing and cleaning between your teeth.

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Mouthwash and fluoride protection

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and protect against tooth decay.

A fluoride mouthwash can:

• Increase the level of fluoride in your saliva.
• Help protect areas that are harder to reach with a toothbrush.
• Give extra protection if you are at higher risk of decay.

Choose a mouthwash containing more than 100 ppm fluoride for daily use, unless advised otherwise by your dental team.

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When should mouthwash be used?

For children over 7 and adults:

• After brushing with fluoride toothpaste, spit – don’t rinse with water.
• If gums bleed, use a daily fluoride mouthwash that is clinically proven to reduce plaque.

To get the most benefit:

• Use mouthwash at a different time of day from brushing, unless your dental team tells you otherwise.
• Follow the instructions on the bottle.

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Summary

• Mouthwash helps support gum and tooth health.
• It works best alongside good brushing and daily cleaning between teeth.
• It gives extra fluoride and plaque control, but cannot replace brushing.

If you are unsure which mouthwash to choose, ask your dental team for advice.