Mouth rinses: safety precautions

Author of the article:

Soldatova Lyudmila Nikolaevna

Candidate of Medical Sciences, Professor of the Department of Clinical Dentistry of the St. Petersburg Medical and Social Institute, Chief Physician of the Alfa-Dent Dental Clinic, St. Petersburg

Oral hygiene is not only regular brushing of teeth in the morning and evening, but also the use of other means to remove bad breath and prevent dental diseases. One of these products is mouthwash. Previously, decoctions of medicinal plants were used in this capacity. Modern medicine offers complex, balanced compositions that have a targeted effect and provide the desired therapeutic or preventive effect.

Purpose of rinses for the mouth and gums

Dentists recommend using these products for:

• Keeping your breath fresh.
• For people who smoke, the components included in the product prevent yellowing of tooth enamel, and also reduce the destructive effect of nicotine and tar on tooth enamel.
• Reducing the effect of “staining” of the enamel as a result of frequent consumption of coffee, tea, wine and other drinks that affect the color of teeth.
• To reduce inflammation in the gums and reduce their bleeding.
• Reduced enamel sensitivity.

Also recommended for use:

• People who suffer from various oral diseases.
• Patients who have braces, dentures or any other structures in the oral cavity.
• After operations in the oral cavity (tooth extraction, installation of implants, etc.).

It must be taken into account that rinses are used as an aid to oral care. They should not be used as a substitute for brushing your teeth. The liquid product helps get rid of food particles and germs that cannot be removed during regular cleaning.

How to choose the best option for yourself - selection criteria

The range of rinses for teeth and gums is wide and varied. Choosing a composition that is ideal for you is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. To make the right choice, you need to immediately identify specific criteria for yourself and build on them.

Purpose of the product

All antimicrobial rinsing compositions can be divided into two large groups: preventive and therapeutic. The first ones are suitable for everyone, and many including for children aged 6-7 years.

Therapeutic ones have a fairly high concentration of active components, so their use is recommended if there are appropriate indications. Usually these are means for the treatment and prevention of inflammatory processes, combating the increased sensitivity of enamel. But if you discover signs of periodontal disease or your teeth begin to react sharply to temperature changes, sweet and sour foods, first you need to consult a dentist for advice. The doctor will conduct a diagnosis, determine the cause of the problem, make a diagnosis and give his professional recommendations on choosing the appropriate option.

Before choosing a product, you need to decide on its purpose.

What does it contain?

If you want to strengthen your teeth and protect them from caries, an antimicrobial rinse with anti-caries effect is suitable for you. Choose products that contain fluoride components: amino fluoride or sodium fluoride. The recommended fluoride concentration is 250 ppm1.

If the main problem for you is periodic inflammation of the gums, then there is only one option: first go to the doctor, get diagnosed and understand the cause of the problem, and only then choose the appropriate product, always taking into account the recommendations of your treating periodontist.

The specialist can immediately offer a medicinal solution as part of the prescribed therapy. Such highly concentrated formulations usually contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial components, as well as substances such as aluminum lactate to eliminate bleeding. They can be used for time-limited courses. During periods of remission, the use of prophylactic agents to strengthen the gums is allowed.

Product quality

The quality and safety of products is usually indicated by the results of clinical studies conducted by the manufacturing companies themselves and third-party organizations. You can find all the necessary information on this matter on the Internet. It would also be a good idea to study the forums and reviews of real people who have tried various mouthwashes and can now share their impressions.

Suitable for use by children and allergy sufferers

As mentioned above, medicinal formulations and rinses that contain ethanol are not suitable for use by children - this point must be taken into account if you are choosing a product for the whole family. People prone to allergies need to carefully study the composition for components that can cause a corresponding reaction. If suspicious symptoms appear after rinsing, immediately consult a doctor for advice.

Composition of funds

The composition may include the following main components:

1. Substances aimed at eliminating the risk of inflammation (antiseptics). These include: triclosan, chlorhexidine
2. Fluorine compounds (sodium fluoride, etc.)
3. Extracts from plants (extracts)
4. Xylitol
5. Ethanol

The components contained in each product may differ depending on the purpose for which a particular mouthwash is made. Ethyl alcohol is practically not used in modern rinses, since it can dry out the oral cavity.

Classification

The classification divides mouth products into two main groups:

• hygienic (cosmetic) - in fact, only masking the problem;
• medicinal - really eliminating it.

Hygienic ones include deodorizing mouth rinses - refreshing, eliminating unpleasant odor, and whitening - brightening tooth enamel.

Therapeutic rinses can be divided into:

• anti-caries;
• painkillers (anti-inflammatory);
• antibacterial;
• against gingivitis and plaque;
• against tartar;
• astringents.

Anti-caries products usually contain a lot of fluoride, which strengthens teeth well. They are often prescribed to those who wear braces.

Pain-relieving mouth rinses are designed to relieve acute pain associated with certain oral diseases. You can buy mouthwashes with this effect in pharmacies.

Antibacterial rinses destroy harmful microorganisms and keep gums healthy; they usually have a complex synthetic composition.

Rinses that are designed to prevent gingivitis and plaque act on bacteria, slowing their growth in the mouth. If the product contains antiseptics, for example, triclosan, then it is used only with a prescription.

Anti-tartar products contain calcium citrate.

Astringents constrict blood vessels, thereby reducing their sensitivity, and form a film on nerve endings, protecting them from inflammation.

How to use it correctly?

Recommendations for using the product:

1. The amount of product must correspond to the recommended amount. Information on the required dosage can be found in the package insert or on the cap of the rinse aid. Some manufacturers of products provide special dispensers that do not allow the use of liquid in excess of the norm.
2. The product must be diluted if this is stated in the instructions.
3. Mouthwash is usually used after daily brushing of teeth. More frequent use is possible only after consultation with your doctor.
4. The rinsing time is from 20 seconds to a minute.
5. The product should not be swallowed.
6. It is not recommended to consume food or liquid for half an hour after the procedure.
7. For young children, it is advisable to purchase products that are suitable for their age.

Nuances of selection and application

There are many formulations on the market that differ in color, taste, smell, shape, and type of packaging. They also differ in price, but this factor, according to Anna Derevyannykh, is not always indicative when choosing a product.

“Some formulations use expensive ingredients, while others use budget ones,” comments the specialist. “But the price is most influenced by marketing, packaging and advertising costs. In general, all rinses, regardless of price, are no different from each other.”

Therefore, when choosing a dental elixir, you should carefully read its composition and select a product depending on the condition of the oral cavity, existing problems or for their prevention. But you definitely shouldn’t pay attention to the color. According to the specialist, you can safely use red, blue, and green solutions every day. Even the brightest rinse does not stain either the enamel or gums. The only exceptions are patients who have undergone complex whitening. After whitening procedures, you should avoid using colored balms.

According to dentists, it is necessary to use mouthwash daily. Ideal - after each brushing of teeth with a brush and toothpaste. The solution should be taken into the mouth and vigorously move the cheeks for 30-60 seconds. During this time, the composition, moving under pressure, will have time to wash away impurities from the surface of the enamel, and the active components will begin to have a therapeutic effect on the oral cavity. Then you should spit out the liquid and do not eat or drink anything for half an hour. The longer the medicinal components remain in the mouth, in direct contact with the gum tissue and tooth enamel, the better the therapeutic effect they have.

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Precautions for use

Before purchasing the product, you should consult with your doctor, since, in addition to the obvious benefits, there are several negative factors associated with its use:

1. Change in taste sensations.
2. Darkening or change in the natural color of tooth enamel as a result of prolonged use of mouthwash.
3. If the product contains ethanol (ethyl alcohol), its use is hazardous to health (since there is a possibility of accidental ingestion of the liquid).

Do not forget about the individual intolerance of the body to some components. It is recommended to carefully study the composition before using the product so as not to cause harm to health. The most common side effects when using mouthwash:

• Burning in the mouth.
• Nausea.
• Diarrhea.
• Dry mouth.
• The appearance of seizures.
• Blueness of fingertips.
• The appearance of an inflammatory process in the lymph nodes.
• Dizziness.
• Blue lips.
• Excessive thirst.
• Impaired coordination of movements.
• Difficulty breathing, etc.

If at least one of the above symptoms appears, you should stop using the drug and consult your doctor. If the product is used as prescribed by a doctor, the risk of side effects is minimal.

What to do if you accidentally swallowed liquid

As mentioned above, some liquids contain not only high concentrations of active components, but also ethanol. If you swallow a sufficient amount, it can negatively affect the condition of the body, the stomach and intestines in particular.

If you accidentally swallowed a small amount, you shouldn’t worry too much about it. However, if the composition includes a high concentration of fluoride or ethanol, it would be a good idea to consult a doctor, especially if signs of intoxication appear - headache, dizziness, feeling unwell and vomiting.

Mouthwash: is it necessary and who should use it?

Today, rinsing liquids are not very popular. However, the question of whether modern man needs them should be answered in the affirmative. After all, it is very important to maintain a healthy oral cavity, preventing the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria.

In case of weak gums, their tendency to bleeding and inflammation, chronic diseases and when recovering from surgery, the use of gum rinses is simply necessary. Such products contain substances to relieve inflammation and quickly heal gum tissue, strengthen and reduce bleeding.

If you have very sensitive teeth, it is also worth using a mouthwash regularly. There are products specifically designed for teeth that react painfully to hot and cold foods and drinks. They not only strengthen tooth enamel, but also create a protective film that lowers the sensitivity threshold and also protects teeth from cervical caries.

Using mouthwash during pregnancy will help many expectant mothers keep their teeth intact and healthy. Indeed, during this period, bleeding gums, increased sensitivity of teeth, and damage due to a lack of vitamins and minerals may appear. Therefore, it is especially important to monitor oral hygiene. Special compounds create a protective film, preventing the destruction of tooth enamel.

Features of use in childhood

The use of mouthwash by a child under 12 years of age should be supervised by parents. Such products are quite acceptable for children, but you need to carefully study the instructions and recommendations. Conventional prophylactic formulations are approved for use, including by children over 6 years of age. Medicinal drugs are allowed for use only from 12 years of age and according to a doctor’s indications. If you plan to teach your child proper hygiene, be sure to pay attention to the alcohol content in the liquid. Obviously, it is better to choose a product without ethanol in its composition.

The use of mouthwash by a child under 12 years of age should be supervised by parents

It is important to teach your child how to rinse his mouth correctly. First, teach him to measure the required amount of liquid - 10-15 ml. You can use a measuring cap for this. Make sure that the duration of the procedure is at least a minute. Explain to your child that under no circumstances should the product be swallowed - after rinsing it should be spat out.

Rinse aids "ASEPTA"

Typically, manufacturers of rinses produce them in specialized series, each product is “responsible” for the treatment (prevention) of a specific disease (or diseases that are closely related to each other). For example, Asepta Fresh mouthwash helps get rid of unpleasant odors thanks to the antibacterial effect of plant extracts and mint with lime. You can buy mouthwash in regular pharmacies and stores, large supermarkets, online pharmacies and online stores.

Asepta Fresh mouthwash is made from natural plant ingredients:

• Lime and mint provide pleasant flavor profiles.
• Potassium and sodium remove plaque and tartar.
• Extracts of witch hazel, sage and chamomile provide antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Xylitol protects tooth enamel.
• Potassium citrate reduces the sensitivity of enamel.

Characteristics of Asept Fresh and its effects:

• Protects teeth and gums from plaque.
• Has a calming effect.
• Prevents the occurrence and development of carious formations in the oral cavity.
• Preserves the natural whiteness of tooth enamel.
• Provides fresh breath for a long period.
• Prevents gum inflammation and reduces bleeding.
• The product does not contain components such as alcohol and dyes.
• It can be used for an unlimited amount of time.
• Has no contraindications.

Taking into account the peculiarities of the action of various rinses, dentists recommend using not one, but several products - either alternating them or using them in combination. Since these products play a supporting role, they are usually matched with appropriate toothpastes. Complex influence is much more effective.

Regular use of properly selected rinses is not only an attractive appearance of the oral cavity, but also the health of teeth and gums.

Is mouthwash beneficial or harmful?

Few people pay attention to the composition of mouth rinses. But in vain. They may contain harmful substances that will damage both tooth enamel and gums. And this is already fraught with very expensive dental consequences.

Composition of mouth rinses

• One of these harmful substances is triclosan - it kills not only harmful but also beneficial bacteria. It has a direct effect on the muscles of the dental cavity, reducing their activity, which leads to such an unpleasant phenomenon as atrophy. With frequent use of triclosan, some pathogenic bacteria become resistant to its action, which reduces the benefit of its use to zero.
• Alcohol can irritate the mucous membranes and cause dry mouth.
• The next element is fluorine . Today it has become overused. Fluoride is added in huge doses to toothpastes and mouthwashes. And everything in life, including useful things, as we know, is good in moderation. Of course, fluoride is good for teeth, but only in small quantities. Unfortunately, the advertising industry is silent about this important fact. Excess fluoride destroys tooth enamel. And this leads to yellowing and darkening of the teeth and the occurrence of fluorosis - the enamel becomes fragile, the teeth become covered with red or brown spots, defects in the dental tissue appear and even the formation of holes.
• Calcium - in excessive quantities can cause nausea, vomiting, and constant thirst. Increased calcium intake is strictly not recommended for pregnant women, because... increases the risk of birth injuries and leads to placental calcenosis, which interferes with normal fetal nutrition.
• Neovitin is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women and people with carbohydrate metabolism disorders.
• Calcium quote - Allergic reactions sometimes occur: rash, itching, hives, stomach pain, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea or constipation.
• Chlorhexidine - with frequent use of chlorhexidine, brown or black spots appear on the teeth - the amount of plaque and tartar will increase. Dryness and burning in the mouth also occurs.
• Cetylpyridinium chloride is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

To use or not to use whitening and cosmetic rinses is up to you. It is important to remember that beneficial substances will not be able to penetrate behind the plaque film on their own, and therefore, without thorough hygiene, the use of any rinses is virtually useless. Therefore, they can only be used after thoroughly brushing your teeth with toothpaste.

Therapeutic rinses can help treat some gum inflammation if used strictly as recommended by your doctor. If you want to protect yourself from unpleasant consequences, ask your dentist to recommend an effective and safe product, do not use it too often and do not exceed the concentration specified in the instructions. If the medicinal rinse prescribed to you causes extremely discomfort, it is better to tell your doctor.

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Clinical researches

ASEPTA rinses are clinically proven effective. For example, repeated clinical studies have proven that the two-component oral product ASEPTA ACTIVE more effectively combats the causes of inflammation and bleeding compared to single-component rinses - it reduces inflammation by 41% and reduces bleeding gums by 43%.

Sources:

1. The role of anti-inflammatory rinse in the treatment of periodontal diseases (L.Yu. Orekhova, A.A. Leontyev, S.B. Ulitovsky) L.Yu. OREKHOVA, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Prof., Head of Department; A.A. LEONTIEV, dentist; S.B. ULITOVSKY, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Prof. Department of Therapeutic Dentistry of St. Petersburg State Medical University named after. acad. I. P. Pavlova
2. Report on determining/confirming the preventive properties of commercially produced personal oral hygiene products: Asepta toothpaste used in combination with Asepta mouthwash and Asepta gum balm Head. Department of PFS Doctor of Medical Sciences Professor S.B. Ulitovsky St. Petersburg State Medical University named after Academician I.P. Pavlova. Faculty of Dentistry. Department of Preventive Dentistry.