Fluoride has been an established part of dentistry for many decades, and as such, we tend to trust it implicitly. But, do we know how helping our teeth will affect our gums? As it happens, fluoride mouthwash does have its downsides. In this article, we will be outlining all you need to know about the ups and downs of cleaning your teeth with a beneficial mouthwash.
So, are you excited to learn more? Great, let us begin understanding what is flouride mouthwash.
The Pros of Fluoride Mouthwash
Fluoride is a substance that is added to water to help prevent cavities. The use of fluoride mouthwash is recommended by dental professionals as part of a comprehensive oral care plan.
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Fluoride Fight Cavities
Fluoride helps to fight cavities by making the tooth enamel stronger and more resistant to the acids that can cause decay. Fluoride mouthwashes are an easy and convenient way to get an extra dose of fluoride.
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Prevents Gum Diseases
A fluoride mouthwash can prevent gum disease by keeping the teeth and gums healthy. Gum disease is caused by bacteria that build up on the teeth and gums. Fluoride mouthwashes can help to remove these bacteria and is effective in preventing tooth decay.
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Fluoride is Good for Teeth Whitening
Fluoride works by helping to remove stains and discoloration from the surface of the teeth, making them appear brighter and more polished. For these reasons, fluoride mouthwash is an important part of an oral care routine for many people.
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Fluoride Reduces Teeth Sensitivity
Fluoride can help to harden the tooth enamel, making it less sensitive to hot, cold, or acidic substances. For people who suffer from sensitive teeth, using a fluoride mouthwash can be a great way to help reduce discomfort and pain.
The Cons of Fluoride Mouthwash
Though fluoride mouthwash can help to prevent cavities, there are some downsides to using it. There are also a few reasons why dental experts found this to be reasonable.
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May Lead to Oral Cancer
As more and more research is conducted on the effects of fluoride, some scientists are concerned that using fluoride with mouthwash may lead to an increased risk of oral cancer. Studies have shown that fluoride can accumulate in the tissues of the mouth and that it may be able to damage DNA.
The research is still inconclusive though, but fluoride with mouthwash may increase the risk of oral cancer.
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It Just Covers Up Bad Breath
Fluoride mouthwash is often marketed as a way to keep your breath fresh and prevent cavities. However, fluoride mouthwash does not eliminate bad breath; it just temporarily covers it up. The strong minty flavor of a fluoride mouthwash can mask the smell of bad breath, but it does not get rid of the bacteria that cause it.
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It Can Irritate Canker Sores
While fluoride is considered a cavity-fighting substance, it can also irritate canker sores. Canker sores are small ulcers that develop in the soft tissue inside the mouth. A mouthwash with fluoride can cause canker sores by irritating the tissue in the mouth and making it more susceptible to infection.
If you are not sure about these findings, it’s best to talk to professionals. Click here for Hollywood Smile resources.
Weigh the Pros and Cons Before Using Flouride Mouthwash
If you are considering using a mouthwash with fluoride, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Just know how to choose a mouthwash and be aware of what it may cause if you depend too much on it.
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