Often we have thought that traditional mouthwash was effective in removing bad breath and bacteria from our mouths and making our teeth and gums healthier.  Fooled by mint flavoring and the burn of drying alcohol we believed that we were helping rather than harming our bodies.  When in fact traditional mouthwashes can disrupt the natural environment of the mouth resulting in even worse symptoms than what was originally there.

Natural mouthwash is a wise alternative to chemicals and additives that may not improve the health of your mouth at all. Natural mouthwash can be just as effective at freshening breath and removing bacteria without disrupting your body’s natural balance. Look for washes that contain ingredients that perform double duty. Peppermint and spearmint oils not only freshen the breath but they also kill bacteria and are a good choice as a main ingredient in the wash that you choose.

Traditional mouthwash can contain ingredients that may surprise you.  Alcohol is a key component along with plain water in most traditional rinses.  Alcohol is very drying to the tissues of the body and it effects the inside of the mouth in the same way. As the mouth dries out the bacteria you work so hard to kill find a happy place to continue to grow. Without saliva to wash it away the bad breath you thought you were curing only becomes worse.  Surprisingly your mouthwash may also contain sweeteners to enhance the flavor but this does not benefit your oral health and could contribute to other tooth and gum problems with continued use.

Even though a natural mouthwash may present a new idea in the way you clean your teeth and gums it is a wise and healthy way to improve the overall health of your mouth and your body.  Reducing your risk of allergic reaction to strong chemicals as well as the drying effects of alcohol is beneficial to the function of your body and your overall health.