The stir, swishing has caused: How mouthwash helps
The stir, swishing has caused: How mouthwash helps
A recent research by Cardiff university* has shown that using certain kinds of mouthwash can help kill COVID-19. The tests were done outside the mouth. Let us dig deeper, though, to understand how mouthwash could help in reducing the transmission of the virus and how a mouthwash helps in maintaining the general oral hygiene.
* https://academic.oup.com/function/article/1/1/zqaa002/5836301?login=false#204414693
Mouthwash: The types and uses
Mouthwash can have different compositions. From the major component being iodine, to peroxide to anti-bacterial agents. It is important to understand that mouthwash can be used as an adjunct to the basic oral hygiene measures, but NOT as a substitute. Certain mouthwash like chlorhexidine or Betadine are recommended to be used for a short period of time as they can cause staining of the teeth or damage to the oral soft tissue.
So, just because we have limited evidence that mouthwash can help in reducing the transmission of COVID 19 doesn’t mean that you go ahead and just start rinsing with any mouthwash you can lay your hands on.
There are lot many other factors. Read on to understand.
How a mouthwash can help in reducing transmission?
Viruses can be of two kinds, enveloped and non-enveloped. The enveloped virus consists of a lipid (fat) outer layer and the non-enveloped viruses have only a protein coat with nuclear material inside. Coronavirus group of viruses are enveloped and thus, if the outer lipid layer is disintegrated the virus is inactivated. This is also the principal behind soap being able to deactivate the virus. Commonly available mouthwashes have components like ethanol, povidone iodine, etc. These help in disrupting the lipid membrane that is present on the surface of coronaviruses. The disruption of the lipid layer inactivates the virus and renders it ineffective. So, mouthwash could help in reducing the viral load in the saliva.
How to use a mouthwash?
Mouthwash needs to be used in a certain concentration and for a certain duration for it to be effective. Ask your dentist who prescribed you the mouthwash on how to use it Some general instructions for dilution include
- Chlorhexidine mouthwash needs to be used without any dilution
- Betadine mouthwash needs to be used in 1:1 dilution
- Listerine has to be used undiluted
- Hydrogen peroxide is available in different concentrations and thus the dilution is variable. It is generally NOT recommended for home use.
How many times do you need to use a mouthwash?
If there is an active infection, your dentist might ask you to use it 3-4 times a day too, depending on the severity of the infection ‘ On a regular basis (as an adjunct to oral hygiene measures or as a preventive measure for COVID-19) use it twice a day
How long do you need to swish using a mouthwash?
For a minimum of a minute. This is the time required for the mouthwash to contact all the surfaces of the teeth and start the action. Rinsing using a mouthwash for less than a minute is ineffective.
Do I rinse with water or can I eat immediately after using a mouthwash?
The answer is an absoluteNO. The components of the mouthwash deposit on the surface of the teeth and cause the disruption of the microorganism. Rinsing the mouthwash or eating and drinking almost immediately hastens the chemical action of the mouthwash. Wait for at least 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything after rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash.
When to use a mouthwash
If you want to use a mouthwash as a preventive measure against COVID-19 you would need to use it at least 3 times a day. Use it for swishing after every meal when you normally swish. First rinse your mouth with water and after all the food particles and debris are out you can swish using a mouthwash. The required quantity is 5ml every time you swish. You can also swish after brushing in the morning and night. The important point is that if you are using a chlorhexidine mouthwash, DO NOT use is continuously for a period of more than 15 days as it would cause staining in the teeth. The teeth become greyish in colour. Betadine mouthwash can be used for more prolonged periods of time, but that too might cause external staining by the iodine. Hydrogen peroxide should not be used on a regular basis for home care as it would cause damage to the gums and the oral soft tissue.
Mouthwash as a regular oral hygiene practice
Mouthwash can be used as an adjunct to regular oral hygiene practices as it deposits on the teeth and gives a prolonged chemical action. This prevents the formation of the bacterial biofilm and thus protects the tooth from cavities and gum diseases. But, as stated earlier, mouthwash CANNOT BE USED AS A SUBSITUTE to brushing or flossing and CANNOT BE USED FOR PROLONGED PERIODS OF TIME
You could use a mouth wash when
- You are experiencing bad breath, or have a situation wherein you are conscious about how your breath smells
- There is bleeding on brushing. This is an early onset of gum disease and. After getting a professional cleaning done and understanding the correct way of brushing, use the mouthwash for around 7-10 days as this will help in prevention of formation of the bacterial colonies and help in the gums to heal
- After any gum surgery. It helps in cleaning the deep unreachable areas effectively and promotes healing. Some mouthwash brands also have a mild anaesthetic, this could also help in relieving the pain post-surgery.
Find out if you need to use a mouthwash, for how long and which composition is most suited for your condition @ www.DentOp.com Got any other dentistry related questions?Contact us
