Abstract
This article tells us about the different types of mouthwashes and the importance of it in day to day life. It imparts knowledge about the ingredients and uses of a mouthwash in a very easy language.
Introduction
Brushing and flossing are the cornerstones of healthy oral hygiene, but mouthwash can also be beneficial due to the many oral health benefits it provides. Brushing only cleans 25% of the oral cavity, so germs can remain even after you brush, hence it is important for one to use therapeutic mouthwash on a daily basis to maintain oral hygiene.
What is a mouthwash?
In simple words, mouthwash is a solvent of active ingredients that is used to clean and de-odorize the oral cavity. 15- 30 ml of the diluted solution is used for gargling and rinsing the mouth for minimum 30 seconds. Mouthwashes contain astringents, antiseptics and/or obtundents, flavouring agents.
Ideally, a mouth wash should
- Primarily reduce plaque & gingivitis.
- Fluoride present should fight tooth decay and strengthen enamel.
- Overcome bad breath.
Excipients-
1. Alcohol :
- Enhances the flavour
- Solubilising agent & preservative.
(Alcohol free mouthwashes are also available)
2. Humectants : Glycerine & Sorbitol.
- Enhances the sweetness of the final product
- Increases viscosity of the preparation.
3. Surfactants : Sodium lauryl sulfate .
- Loosens & suspends plaque.
4. Flavouring Agents : Peppermint, menthol, oil of wintergreen.
- Overcomes disagreeable taste
5. Colouring Agents : Methylene blue , magenta.
- For esthetic appeal to patients
Mouthwashes assist in the control of plaque, the thin bacterial layer that forms on your teeth. Plaque gradually hardens into tartar if it is not removed. Mouthwash will also help to prevent this tartar from forming.
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