Mouthwash ingredients

It is very important for us to protect our teeth. Bad teeth directly affect the absorption of nutrients. More importantly, malnutrition will bring harm to our health. Brushing our teeth every day is something we must do, and it is also necessary to rinse our mouths with mouthwash after every meal. Although many people do not think so, mouthwash is still very effective in killing bacteria in teeth, mainly because it contains bactericides.

1. Fungicide

Antiseptics are the most important ingredients in mouthwash, killing bacteria in the mouth that cause bad breath, tooth decay and cavities. Thymol, hexetidine, and benzalkonium chloride are some of the most commonly used antiseptic and antibacterial ingredients in mouthwashes. Antimicrobial agents such as cetylpyridinium chloride can even reduce the formation of dental plaque.

2. Fluoride

Fluoride is also a common ingredient in mouthwash. This substance not only inhibits bacterial growth but also strengthens tooth enamel. Strengthening tooth enamel is great for preventing cavities and tooth decay. This is why some areas add fluoride to drinking water.

3. Spices

Mouthwashes also often contain different flavorings to make the mouthwash taste better. In addition, fragrances can help mask bad breath; for example, many mouthwashes are minty in flavor. Some mouthwashes get their minty flavor from added menthol. This substance is usually obtained from the mint plant. Methyl salicylate, also known as wintergreen oil, is also a common mouthwash flavor. Many mouthwash products also contain sweeteners, such as xylitol and stevia, which can also help inhibit bacterial growth.

4. Preservatives

Like many commercial products, most mouthwashes also contain preservatives to prevent the mouthwash from going bad. Methylparaben is a preservative often used in mouthwashes.

5. Alcohol content

Mouthwashes also often contain alcohol because of its antiseptic and antiseptic properties. Some users have experienced adverse reactions such as oral irritation and dryness when using alcohol-containing mouthwashes, so it is recommended to use a non-alcoholic mouthwash. In addition, concerns about children swallowing are also one of the reasons why using alcohol-containing mouthwash is not recommended.

6. Bleach

Some manufacturers have also begun adding bleach to their mouthwash products. For example, hydrogen peroxide, which has antibacterial properties, is sometimes added to mouthwash to help whiten teeth. However, some users have found that using these products can cause teeth to become sensitive or brittle.