There is no better way to make an introduction than through a great smile but it all starts with good dental hygiene just like you would moisturize your face every day or put some pre-shave oil on the face when you are about to shave.

Whether you are looking to create a lasting impression on a date or during that important job interview, a good smile will go a long way.

However, all that can be undone if your dental hygiene is questionable, especially if you happen to have stained Teeth. 

It can happen to any of us, especially considering that all the good food can stain our teeth. 

However, you don’t have to condemn yourself to stained teeth all your life as there are so many ways of undoing the damage through Whitening strips of better still a whitening mouthwash.   

What Is a Whitening Mouthwash

Not everyone can afford the recommended dentist visits and as such will use what is at their disposal, such as a whitening mouthwash to prevent teeth yellowing. 

This cleaning agent, when used regularly, can change your teeth from unhealthy to a healthy white quickly. 

While regular visits to the doctor can help alleviate some dental problems, teeth yellowing isn’t one of them.

For that, you need to visit a teeth whitening specialist or rely on whitening mouthwash. Besides changing the color of your teeth, whitening mouthwash can prevent tooth decay by getting rid of bacteria that causes gingivitis. 

Benefits of Using a Whitening Mouthwash

If regular visits to the dentist don’t work for you, here are a few reasons why you should consider buying whitening mouthwash:

Fights Cavities

This is true for any mouthwash that contains fluoride. Fluoride is essential in reducing cavitation of teeth hence preventing tooth decay in the long run. 

Eradicates Gum Disease

An anti-plaque mouthwash helps inhibit the growth of bacteria that end up causing gum diseases like gingivitis due to the active ingredients like triclosan, chlorhexidine and thymol. 

Teeth Whitening

This is probably the main reason why people buy whitening mouthwash. However, not all of them can reverse stained teeth except those that contain bleaching agents like hydrogen peroxide. 

Reduced Sensitivity

Do you have sensitive teeth? Whitening mouthwash that contains arginine helps in the sealing of dentinal tubules found in the sensitive parts of the teeth eradicating sensitivity. 

It is recommended, however, that you consult your dentist before you buy any desensitizing mouthwash. 

How Does a Whitening Mouthwash Work

Lie a majority of mouthwashes, whitening rinses help prevent dental plaque and gum diseases while at the same time freshening the breath. 

The products also contain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide that works to whiten teeth. Most manufacturers recommend using the product for about 12 weeks if you want to see results. 

There are, however, those who feel that whitening rinses may not be as effective as other whitening products since the mouthwashes are only in the mouth for a minute or two compared to whitening strips that can stay in the mouth for up to 30 minutes. 

Pros and Cons of Using a Whitening Mouthwash

If you are thinking about buying whitening mouthwashes, here are a few advantages and disadvantages of these products that you should be aware of: 

Pros

• Contain fluoride that is necessary for fighting off cavities that may lead to tooth decay.
• Prevent the growth of bacteria associated with dental diseases like gingivitis.
• The antibacterial properties prevent pregnancy complications since bacteria from diseases like periodontitis can find their way into a woman’s bloodstream leading to an increase in inflammatory markers that have been linked to preterm labor.
• Can contain the right bleaching agents that are enough to whiten teeth.
• Mouthwashes that contain arginine help reduce tooth sensitivity.

Cons

• There are several studies that have linked mouthwash to oral cancer especially those that contain alcohol.
• Contribute to teeth sensitivity since the alcohol ends up dissolving the mucus layer leaving teeth vulnerable.
• If there is any alcohol in your mouthwash it can end up irritating already existing mouth sores.
• Those who don’t practice good hygiene of brushing and flossing daily, use mouthwash to mask bad breath which works but will eventually lead to all manner of dental health issues like the buildup of plaque.
• Sometimes using mouthwash immediately after brushing ends up reducing the effectiveness of the fluoride found in toothpaste.

How to Choose the Best Whitening Mouthwash

Just like with premium skincare products or any multipurpose bar soap, when it comes to whitening mouthwash, it is important to know exactly what to look out for if you are to avoid long term dental problems. 

This is because there are mouth rinses that contain chemicals that could potentially wreak havoc to your teeth as well as the gums. 

To avoid this, you must pay attention to the ingredients of the product you are about to buy or use the following criteria:

Teeth Sensitivity

One thing you need to keep in mind is that mouthwashes contain ingredients that may harm your teeth over time. 

Alcohol is one such ingredient that you should look out for. It causes pain if you happen to have sensitive teeth or any other affliction that is brought by sensitivity. 

Ingredients

The ingredients affect a product’s taste, feel, intensity and properties which is why this is an important thing to consider. 

That being the case, there are certain ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal and fluoride that you should ensure are present and others like alcohol that you should avoid. 

Effects

The effects of the mouthwash will determine if you will be getting value for your money. Some of them are only effective in whitening teeth while others can do more than that like kill bacteria.

If you choose an item that only whitens the teeth, you may be forced to buy another one that can kill bacteria.

To get value for your money, it is important that you buy an option that whitens and kills bacteria in the process. 

If you have extremely stained teeth, rather than relying on a whitening mouthwash, you might want to go with a whitening toothpaste or any other product as these will be more effective. 

While whitening mouthwash does the job, it is meant for mild stains and to prevent more staining in the future. 

Works Well With Generic Toothpaste Products

If you can, it is important to buy a product that works well with generic toothpaste products since these ones cause less damage over time. 

Multi-Care Benefits

When you are buying whitening rinser, consider going for a product that guarantees other benefits.

For instance, you might want to get a mouthwash that has other properties like preventing plaque buildup, cavities and eliminating bad breath that may exist even if you use the best toothpaste for bad breath.

Bio-Active Enzymes

One other thing you need to consider is going for an item that has bio-active enzymes to help relieve irritation and dryness. 

In this case, avoid products that have saccharin and other sweeteners and those that promise an after sweet taste or heavily flavored ones because there is a chance that such products will cause more harm after some time. 

Amount

The next thing you need to pay attention to is the amount of mouthwash that you are getting. The amount varies from one manufacturer to another but the most important thing is to ensure that you get value for your money in the end. 

There are products that come in large bottles that are ideal for those who intend to use them daily which is important especially in products that can fight bacteria. 

On the other hand, whitening rinses come in small bottles and are ideal for those who are only after the whitening properties of the mouthwash.

At the end of the day, whatever amount you choose will depend on your budget and personal preferences. 

Brand

Finally, the brand name matters because some brands are better than others.

At the end of the day, your dental health is of utmost importance and the last thing you need is to use a brand that will end up causing more harm than good in the long run.

In such a case, it is important to go with well-known brands as these are more trustworthy and have a proven track record. 

Ingredients to Look for in a Whitening Mouthwash

As mentioned, the ingredients affect things like the taste, feel, properties and intensity.

Hydrogen-Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a common product that can be found in almost every bathroom cabinet and it is an important ingredient in mouthwash products. 

This is because hydrogen peroxide has bleaching properties making it the best whitening ingredient. 

It whitens teeth by getting rid of the stains on the surface and rather than covering your teeth with a false white, it brings back that natural color your teeth would have if they were not stained. 

The more hydrogen peroxide in a mouthwash the faster and effective the stain removal process will be. One thing that you should note, however, is that mouth rinses with hydrogen peroxide are highly acidic with pH levels of up to 4.

This means that using a mouthwash that has a lot of hydrogen peroxide concentration will ruin the enamel of your teeth which will lead to decay. 

For the best results, ensure that you use an item that has hydrogen peroxide for the recommended time and avoid going overboard in the hope of speeding up the whitening process. 

Activated Charcoal

Unlike hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal is a natural ingredient that helps whiten your teeth without damaging the enamel or causing tooth sensitivity.

This is why most dentists will recommend using activated charcoal if you suffer from sensitivity. 

Activated charcoal helps neutralize the harmful bacteria in the mouth that may lead to tooth decay while at the same time removing plaque that may build up over time. 

Fluoride

Fluoride is in a majority of toothpaste and mouthwashes alike since it does a good job of eliminating bacteria and strengthening teeth in the process. 

Fluoride on its own has enamel enhancing properties but it can be rough on vulnerable teeth. Despite this, a mouthwash that has fluoride works wonders in maintaining good oral hygiene and whitening teeth. 

If your toothpaste has a lot of fluorides, however, consider buying a mouthwash without to avoid overusing it.

 

Lemon Oil

Whitening rinses might also contain natural ingredients like lemon oil. The acidic component of such oils is important in dissolving stains as well as plaque that deposit in the pocketed area of teeth. 

While such oils are acidic, their percentage is not high enough to cause any damage to your teeth unless when you overuse it.

Lemon oils also work for sensitive teeth. One thing that you should keep in mind is to avoid mouth rinses that have a lot of fruit extracts especially if you have cavities since they may flare up when they come into contact with the sugars in the mouthwash. 

Ingredients to Avoid in a Whitening Mouthwash

Now that you know what ingredients to look for in mouthwash, it is worth noting those that you should avoid at all costs as these can harm your teeth in the long run. 

Alcohol

A lot of whitening products contain some percentage of alcohol. In fact, alcohol is responsible for that burning sensation you get when you use any teeth product. 

Alcohol is used to kill bacteria which is why it is used as an antiseptic in many medical products. However, it is a harsh product that can cause dryness in your mouth and worsen tooth sensitivity. 

While it doesn’t wear down the enamel like hydrogen peroxide, it can cause your teeth to hurt if they are susceptible to such discomforts. 

However, it works well in eliminating tooth stains by killing bacteria and preventing plaque buildup. 

Alcohol is usually the main ingredient, but you should avoid it if you have sensitive teeth. Another reason to avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes is that the ingredient reduces the production of saliva. 

You need saliva in your mouth to prevent the growth of bacteria which may cause conditions like halitosis. 

In such a case rather than masking bad breath, mouthwashes that contain alcohol will make it worse. 

Hydrated Silica

Most teeth whitening products contain high concentrations of Hydrated Silica to increase their effectiveness.

While this chemical works wonders, it is highly dangerous and can end up causing more harm than good to your teeth. 

This is because hydrated silica is a crystallized compound that will wear down the enamel on your teeth which could lead to cavities in the end. 

Saccharin and Sweeteners

Rather than using white sugar, whitening mouthwashes will contain saccharin as a sweetener substitute. 

While the health risks of this ingredient are not clear, there are studies that link it to cancer. Additionally, sweeteners will end up making cavities even worse. 

How to Use a Whitening Mouthwash

Step 1 – Pour the correct dosage in a cup

Before you use any product carefully read the instructions on the proper dosage. The mouthwash may come with a small cup that you can use to measure the correct amount. 

Most of them recommend a dose of 20ml but some fluoride rinses only require a dosage of 10ml. 

Step 2 – Pour into your mouth

Tip the cup, pour all the mouthwash in your mouth at once and then close your mouth so that the liquid doesn’t spill out when you begin swishing it. Ensure that you don’t swallow in the process. 

Step 3 – Swish the mouthwash for 30 to 60 minutes

Swish the mouth rinse through your teeth ensuring that it gets in front and behind the teeth as well as under the tongue. Ensure that you follow the directions on the bottle on how long you are supposed to swish it. 

Step 4 – Spit

When you have swished for the recommended duration of time, spit it out and then rinse the sink. Do not gurgle water afterward. 

Depending on the product, you may not be in a position to eat or drink anything for 30 minutes or more. 

Whitening Mouthwash vs Similar Products

Good oral hygiene is important in preventing periodontal diseases like gingivitis but not all teeth problems can be solved by visiting a dentist.

One such problem is teeth yellowing which can end up lowering your self-esteem and one way of dealing with that is through the use of whitening mouthwash, but how does it compare to similar products of its kind?

Whitening Mouthwash vs Whitening Toothpaste

Just like you would prevent skin problems by using a face wash or an anti-aging cream that revitalizes skin, whitening mouthwash is meant to be used on discolored teeth and contains whitening ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal, fluoride and lemon oils.

However, it’s not meant for teeth that are already badly stained and you may need to rely on other products for that. 

Instead, it is meant to remove mild stains from teeth like those caused by tea or coffee and can help prevent stains from developing in the future. 

Whitening toothpaste works the same way but offers more additional dental benefits. It is meant to be used daily and helps in the whitening of teeth over time without causing any damage to the enamel.

Whitening Mouthwash vs Strips

When it comes to teeth whitening, most people prefer the process to be vigorous and fast but this can pose dental health risks in the future. Whitening mouthwash is meant to remove mild stains on teeth and at the same time kill bacteria that cause gum diseases. 

Whitening strips, on the other hand, are more intense and have been linked to several health issues including cancer. They are, however, more potent and deliver results in a shorter period of time. 

Just like lip balm heals lip cracks, most people use whitening strips if they don’t want to get any whitening procedure at the dentist. 

While strips work efficiently in removing stains, they can only be used on teeth that can withstand the effects. 

Whitening Mouthwash vs Regular Mouthwash

Just like you would make your hands soft with men’s hand cream, fight dark circles with an eye cream or use face mask clean skin and make it healthier, most people who use whitening mouthwash to remove mild stains that are caused by coffee and tea and prevent more from developing in the future. 

These products, therefore, contain whitening ingredients like hydrogen peroxide and activated charcoal. 

While they can be used in other ways like to kill germs that may cause gum disease, they are mainly meant for teeth whitening. 

Regular mouthwash, on the other hand, is meant to freshen breath but doesn’t necessarily work for those who suffer from chronic bad breath that is severe. All you need is to swish a little, maybe twice a day to maintain fresh breath. 

Regular mouthwash like whitening one, also contains ingredients like fluoride that help protect the teeth from acids that are produced by plaque bacteria. 

Regular mouthwash should be used after you have brushed your teeth and should never replace flossing and brushing at any point. 

Does More Spending Mean More Quality

When it comes to anything to do with your oral health, more spending does mean more quality and the same applies to whitening mouthwash.

If you don’t want to use whitening strips due to their intensity and potential health risks, then you need to get the right whitening mouthwash.

This means going with well-known brands even if it means spending a little bit more. Look out for ingredients like hydrogen peroxide and pay attention to its concentration, activated charcoal, fluoride and lemon oils. 

At the end of the day, the last thing you want is to compromise your health just because you don’t want to spend on a mouth rinse. 

Do’s and Don’ts to Do With a Whitening Mouthwash

• Don’t ever use mouthwash as a substitute for brushing and flossing the recommended times a day.
• Don’t buy mouthwash with ingredients like alcohol, hydrated silica and saccharin.
• Don’t overuse this product if you have sensitive teeth and other dental issues.
• Don’t combine it with other teeth whitening products like strips for faster results.
• Do use whitening mouthwash either before or after you brush your teeth.
• Do look out for ingredients such as fluoride, activated charcoal, hydrogen peroxide and lemon oils.
• Do swish it for about 30 to 60 seconds.
• Do continue visiting the dentist regularly even when you are using mouthwash for whitening.
• Do look out for products that have the American Dental Association seal as these have been scientifically proven to work without harming your teeth.

Quick Tips On How to Get the Best Results Using a Whitening Mouthwash

Here are a few tips to follow in order to get the best results:

Use Regularly

The most important aspect is to use mouth rinse regularly or as often as time allows it. If you don’t see any difference after using it for a while, you might want to change the dosage, the swishing time or even then product itself. 

Regardless of the ingredients, it will not work if you don’t take the time to swish it properly. 

Swish for 30 to 60 minutes

At the end of the day, the only way to ensure that your rinse works is to swish it in the mouth for 30 to 60 minutes.

Do ensure that you follow the dosage instructions on the swishing time for it to actually work.

Don’t Overuse It

Even when you are looking to get the best results, overusing whitening mouthwash doesn’t work as you may think. 

In doing so, you might end up developing other long term teeth problems. Use the dose for the recommended period of time and if it doesn’t work you can change the dosage or the item itself. 

Don’t Neglect Brushing and Flossing

There is a common belief among a majority of people that just because you are using whitening mouthwash, you can stop flossing and brushing. As such, always use this product in tandem with good dental care practices. 

One thing you need to keep in mind is that whitening mouthwash works best when used with whitening toothpaste since it provides the protection that your teeth require during the whitening process that may lead to decay and cavities if you don’t brush and floss regularly. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Whitening Mouthwash

How do teeth become stained?

There are several things that may cause your teeth to stain that may overlap to make the problem even more challenging. 

For one, you might be suffering from extrinsic stains that are found on the surface and are caused by food and drink deposits. You could also have pigmented residue from various foods you consume that end up building up in the protein that covers the enamel. 

Over time, these particles build up and end up changing the color of your teeth even when white enamel is still present. Causes of extrinsic stains include coffee, tea and tobacco and, at the same time, sugary drinks like sodas can also cause stains to develop on your teeth. 

How can I make my teeth whiter?

Almost everyone has the maximum whiteness that their teeth can reach which is why it’s important to remember that not all people can achieve that perfect white teeth color. If you have stained teeth, for instance, there are several products that you can use. 

For one, you may use an option that you can combine with whitening toothpaste for the best results over a period of time. 

You could also use other whitening products like strips that are intense and have been risked to potential health risks like cancer. Whatever product you use, ensure that it has the right ingredients and that you don’t overuse it since this may lead to more dental problems in the future.  

Does whitening mouthwash really work?

Whitening mouthwash, when used in the right way, can help eradicate mild stains that are caused by a lot of coffee and tea drinking. If you have badly stained teeth you might want to consider booking an appointment with a teeth whitening specialist or use products like whitening strips.  

Is a whitening mouthwash safe?

Just like regular mouthwash, a whitening version is safe to use as long as you don’t overuse it. While some ingredients may be harsh when used in excess, in reality, they are not dangerous or painful themselves. 

Avoid using this product if you have a deficient in enamel unless your dentist says it’s okay to use one. Enamel is the hard part of the teeth and it can wear and break down over time and since it can’t be replaced, the best thing you can do is use the right dosage. 

How long should I swish a whitening mouthwash?

The exact time you are supposed to swish varies from one bottle to another. This is due to the ingredients. 

However, at the end of the day, the recommended time is between 30 to 60 seconds depending on the intensity of the product. 

Less than 30 seconds may not actually work and more than a minute is probably too much and could end up causing damage.  

How often should I use a whitening mouthwash?

This also varies from one bottle to another. Some of them are intense and should only be used once per day and there are the less intense ones that you can use twice a day. 

Read the instructions carefully and whatever you do, ensure that you don’t use more than is recommended. 

Even when you have badly stained teeth, still follow the directions of use. In such a case, you might want to combine it with other products like whitening toothpaste. 

Should I use a whitening mouthwash before or after brushing my teeth?

It doesn’t matter whether you use your mouthwash before or after brushing your teeth. As long as you do it the right way, both times will be effective. 

Can I use mouthwash as a substitute for brushing my teeth?

No. For your overall dental health, never replace brushing and flossing with mouthwash. Mouthwash should be used as complementary to keep your teeth healthy and smelling fresh. 

Conclusion

When it comes to making first impressions count, nothing does it better than a good smile and to achieve that, your dental health is of the utmost importance. Using whitening mouthwash is not only necessary in maintaining clean and white looking teeth but it helps prevent long term dental health issues like plaque buildup and tooth decay.

If you have bad breath as well, mouthwash can be an alternative to breathe mints. However, in as much as it is effective, you should never substitute brushing and flossing with mouthwash. 

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