I know I should brush and floss daily. But is mouthwash really necessary?

BY: Alice Lesch Kelly

Yes. Brushing and flossing are your first and second line of defence against cavities and gum disease, and mouthwash adds a third level of protection by rinsing away the bacteria and plaque you miss when you brush and floss, according to therapeutic body Australian Prescriber.

If you neglect your oral care and develop gum disease that’s left untreated, mouth bacteria may enter the bloodstream and cause bigger health problems, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and pneumonia, warns Dr. Marcelo Araujo, co-author of a new study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology. Mouthwash reduces the amount of bacteria that travels from the mouth to the bloodstream, according to the study.

Choose the right mouthwash: Look for a mouthwash with CPC (cetylpyridinium chloride), a proven antiseptic that kills bacteria, prevents plaque and reduces gingivitis. Some mouthwashes are alcohol-based (about 20 percent content), which can be an issue for kids, teens and people with alcohol problems if they swallow a lot of it. If you’re concerned about this, look for an alcohol-free alternative that provides similar oral health benefits.

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