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• Mouthwash is a dental rinse used to freshen breath and reduce the bacterial population in the mouth. It can have other uses as well such as teeth whitening.iVillage: Mouthwash Summary

• Fast Facts

  1. Price range: $1 to $25
  2. Two types: Cosmetic and TherapeuticiVillage: Mouthwash Summary
  3. Some contain 18%-26% alcoholiVillage: Mouthwash Summary
  4. Warning: Poisonous if swallowed contact Poison Control immediately
  5. Warning: Not recommended for children under 12iVillage: Mouthwash Summary
  6. Use once or twice a day after brushing and flossingiVillage: Mouthwash Summary
  7. Does not replace flossing

• Overview

  Unlike gums, mints, breath sprays and strips, which just cover bad breath, mouthwash usually freshens breath and kills the bacteria that causes it. There are many types of breath fighting mouthwash on the market. Some, such as TheraBreath, work with oxidizers to eliminate the smell while others use zinc ions. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol, and while they kill the bacteria, they can also cause a burning sensation and dry out the tissues in the mouth.iVillage: Mouthwash Summary

• How to Use Mouthwash

  Rinse with mouthwash once or twice a day after brushing and flossing. Usually a cap-full or about an eighth of a cup of mouthwash is used. Swish around inside the mouth for 30 seconds then spit. Rinsing afterwards with water is fine unless the instructions say otherwise.iVillage: Mouthwash Summary

• Mouthwash and Cancer

  Australian Professor and researcher Michael McCullough warns that mouthwash containing alcohol may cause Oral Cancer, and lists Scope and Listerine as examples. He believes there is enough evidence suggesting dentists should not recommend long-term use to their patients. The New Zealand Ministry of Health has also made statements about using these types of mouthwashes, encouraging people to only use them if advised by dentists.The Consumerist: That Burning From Mouthwash? It's Cancer (January 11, 2009)

• Related Pages on Mahalo

  Oral Cancer | Toothpaste | Listerine Coupons | Fake Toothpaste | Toothbrush | Electric Toothbrush | Deodorant | Perfume | Shaving | Makeup | Bathroom Scale | Sink | Towels | How to Get Rid of Bad Breath | How to Get Rid of Garlic Breath | How to Become a Dental Hygienist

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