The importance of using mouthwash

We all know that regular brushing and flossing is essential for oral health and hygiene, but you might not know how to use mouthwash or what the benefits of doing so are.

The role of mouthwash

Many people don’t know that brushing and flossing only targets 25% of your mouth*, whereas mouthwash targets virtually 100%. That’s because rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash enables you to reach the areas of your mouth that brushing often misses, including the teeth, gums and tongue.

Using a mouthwash that contains fluoride – such as LISTERINE® Total Care Milder Taste– can help to:

• Strengthen enamel to protect against tooth decay
• Freshen breath
• Reduce plaque and prevent tartar.

When to use mouthwash

You should use mouthwash as part of your everyday oral care routine to get the most out of its use. After you’ve finished brushing your teeth, spit out your toothpaste, but do not rinse your mouth with water immediately after. This helps avoid removing fluoride from your toothpaste. Similarly, rinsing with a fluoride containing mouthwash like LISTERINE® Total Care Milder Taste, can ‘top up’ the levels of fluoride.

How often to use mouthwash

Most mouthwash brands recommend twice daily usage, although it’s always best to check the label for brand-specific advice. Using an essential oil containing mouthwash, such as LISTERINE^®, as part of your everyday routine can have several benefits, including:

• Protects against cavities and tooth decay
• Kills bacteria to reduce plaque
• Prevents tartar
• Cleans between the teeth
• Protects the gums
• Freshens breath
• Some mouthwashes can also remove stains to help whiten teeth.

Mouthwash Dos & Don’ts

Using mouthwash correctly is key to ensuring you use it safely and effectively. Here are some of the dos and don’ts for using mouthwash:

Do

• Use mouthwash alongside brushing and flossing, and not as a substitute.

• Always read the label before using mouthwash.
• See your dentist if you experience persistent bad breath or bleeding when brushing or after using mouthwash regularly.
• Swish mouthwash for the time advised on the product label.
• Use a mouthwash specifically for children as part of your child’s oral hygiene routine.

Don’t

• Swallow mouthwash.
• Rinse your mouth with water immediately after brushing.

Add Listerine Total Care Milder Taste to your oral care routine for whole mouth health. 

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*From study representing teeth surface area measurements. Complete your routine – use alongside brushing and flossing.