Mouth rinses

Toothbrush and toothpaste are sometimes not enough to keep teeth and gums healthy. Mouth rinses are often a sensible complement to the mechanical control of deposits. As a rule they should be used after brushing; they can then reinforce the positive effects of the toothpaste and contribute to prevention

These antibacterial substances help to suppress the growth and metabolism of the bacteria in the deposits that cause inflammation, or even to kill them, so that fewer toxins can be produced. Fluorides and chlorhexidine have proved effective as active ingredients. They are available in different concentrations depending on how long they are to be used. Some preparations require a prescription or are only available from pharmacies. These medical solutions, mostly prescribed by a dentist, are to be distinguished from mouthwashes and mouth sprays. Such breath-freshening preparations are usually no more than a cosmetic cover for inadequate oral hygiene. Regular use is rather to be discouraged, since indiscriminate disinfection of the mouth does more harm than good: the quality of the saliva is changed for the worse and useful bacteria may be killed as well. Your dental practice will be glad to advise you and recommend the mouth rinse best suited to you

Mouthwash concentrates

These solutions help only briefly against bad breath and a bad taste. As a rule they contain propolis (bee hive extract), phenol, vitamin A and fluoride. They do not help against caries and periodontal disease, however, because the active substances are dosed too low. Propolis and phenol can also cause allergic reactions

Oral irrigators

They have a roughly cleaning effect but cannot remove the plaque that causes disease. They should therefore only be used as a complement