We can find them in the parapharmacy section with bottles with different shapes and that, for the most part, show that they contain liquids of all possible colors inside. They usually have the most striking labels, and even promise total cleaning with absolute disinfection. So much so that in the end you no longer know if you are buying a mouthwash, a dishwasher cleaner or hydroalcoholic gel. Among so much variety, doubts arise, and that is why today we are going to try to clarify them all.
Although one or the other term is often used to refer to them, they are not the same. Mouthwashes are designed to be used after brushing and thus complete the hygiene of the mouth and teeth. However mouthwashes are preparations that are used occasionally to solve problems such as canker sores or gum inflammation. You could say that mouthwashes are like medicines, that we only use them when we have a problem that we need to solve.
Oral health specialists, for the most part, They recommend that they do not contain alcohol. That ingredient, which a priori we might think will disinfect more and better, will cause a excessive dryness in the mouth and that can lead to an increase in bacterial activity. Just because they contain alcohol does not mean that they are better or disinfect more.
Triclosan is an additive that arouses certain controversy since some years. The European Union has restricted it to a maximum concentration of 0.3% in toothpastes and mouthwashes.
On the positive side, this bactericide, which is usually used in rinses to replace alcohol, helps prevent bleeding gums, protecting them and helping to prevent infections.