There are three basic components to a good oral hygiene routine: brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. Most people understand the necessity of the first two, but the third can often go underappreciated. ADA-approved mouthwash has been clinically demonstrated to reduce bacterial buildup and prevent gum disease when paired with a good oral hygiene routine.
That said, when you get a bottle of mouthwash, it can be a little difficult to judge how much to use. You might try an entire capful, but how much that is can depend on both the brand you buy and the size of the bottle itself. Here’s how much mouthwash you ought to use when you rinse.
How Much Mouthwash Is Enough?
When you rinse, you should aim to use around 20 ml of mouthwash. This is enough to properly coat the mouth, but not so much that you risk accidentally swallowing it.
20 ml is equivalent to 2/3 fl oz, or around four teaspoons. This tends to be about 3/4 of a standard Listerine cap. Some products also have a fill line in their bottle cap, so you should check if that’s the case for you.
How Do I Use Mouthwash?
Using mouthwash is fairly simple, but it’s worth reviewing how to do it properly. After measuring out around 20 ml of liquid, swish it around for at least 30 seconds. This will give it time to reach every part of the mouth. You should also briefly gargle with the mouthwash, being careful not to swallow it.
It’s recommended to use mouthwash twice a day, after each time you brush your teeth. Short of professional cleanings, this is the best way to kill germs in places that you normally can’t reach.
Mouthwash is one of the best ways to clean your teeth, prevent gum disease, and keep your breath smelling fresh. Now that you know how to use it properly, your smile will be that much better.
About Our Practice
At Weiss Dental Arts, our passion for our work is obvious to everyone that visits our office. We work hard to provide the highest quality dental care to the entire family, no matter how simple or complex your issue is. We also believe in getting to know the people we work with, so we can form solid relationships with our patients based on good oral health. If you have any questions about how to get the most out of your dental hygiene products, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (847) 864-0188.