Rinsing your mouth out with water is a great way to quickly freshen up your smile while you are on the go. However, in some cases, patients should avoid rinsing with water. At Harford County Dentistry, we are here to help our patients achieve optimal dental health. This includes making suggestions for patients’ at-home oral hygiene routines.
Learn more about when and how you should rinse your mouth out with water below:
Saltwater Rinses
If you’ve recently undergone an invasive dental procedure, often your dentist will provide you with after-care instructions that include rinsing your mouth out with saltwater. In these cases, rinsing your mouth out with saltwater will help to heal any incision sights or abrasions left behind from your procedure. The saltwater rinse will also help keep the area clean during the early days of healing when brushing and flossing may be uncomfortable around the affected area.
Saltwater rinses are perfectly fine when used as aftercare following a procedure and will help improve your dental health in the long run. To make your own saltwater rinse at home, add ½ a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water. Avoid using cold water, as this may cause additional sensitivity.
Rinsing After Meals
Patients should remember to brush and floss at least twice a day to keep their smiles clean. However, brushing and flossing are not always convenient after midday meals and snacks. If you are in a position where you cannot brush or floss at work or school, rinsing your mouth out with water can help keep your breath fresh.
Additionally, chewing sugar-free gum will help dislodge any food residue stuck between your teeth. While rinsing your mouth out between meals is a good habit, it does not replace the act of brushing and flossing your teeth. It is always best if you can brush and floss after meals for a completely clean smile. In a pinch though, a quick rinse with water can help.
Rinsing After Brushing Your Teeth
We advise our patients not to rinse their mouths out with water after brushing their teeth or using mouthwash. If you rinse your mouth out with water immediately following brushing, any of the active ingredients in the paste will be washed from your smile as well. These ingredients are intended to remain on your teeth to help prevent bad breath, tooth decay, or sensitivity.
Rinsing your mouth out with water after using mouthwash does the exact same thing, reducing the number of active ingredients left behind on your smile. The next time you go to brush your teeth, remember to avoid rinsing with water. If you are looking for a dentist in Fallston, MD, for routine preventative care and dental cleanings, please schedule an appointment with Harford County Dentistry today.