While you may diligently brush and floss your teeth, you are doing your oral health a major disservice if you forgo a regular rinse. With COVID-19 causing everyone to take additional precautions when it comes to handwashing and general hygiene, you may be surprised that the use of an antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce germs and harmful bacteria left behind in your mouth, resulting in a more thorough clean. As a result, your dentist is now requesting that you perform a rinse prior to appointments. To better understand the reasoning behind this step, learn exactly what mouthwash can do to keep you and others safe during this time.
Is Mouthwash Powerful Enough to Kill COVID-19?
As wonderful as it would be to say “yes” to this question, the reality is that mouthwash cannot eliminate the virus. Not only has it not been tested against it, but you should know that it is not a recommended treatment method in killing COVID-19.
While this may seem disheartening, mouthwash is still a safe and reliable way to reduce the harmful bacteria in your mouth and, as a result, better protect you and your dentist the next time you go in for a visit.
Why Rinse Before Your Dental Visit?
As the country begins to lift the restrictions that were originally put into place because of COVID-19, you will notice that your dentist’s office is taking additional precautions to ensure your health and safety. One of these is for all patients to use an antimicrobial rinse before an appointment. Here’s why:
An ADA-approved mouthwash contains 20% alcohol, which is enough to kill many germs within your mouth that can cause bad breath, gum disease, and cavities. Certain dental problems such as periodontal disease can cause your immune system to weaken, making it difficult to fight off infection. As a result, you may be more prone to contracting COVID-19.
Although it is not, by itself, able to prevent gum disease, mouthwash can combat the germs that cause it and decrease the amount of bad bacteria within your oral cavity. Not only does this serve to benefit you, but it also helps protect those around you.
Dental checkups and cleanings require close proximity between you and your dental team, which is why you will find all dental professionals wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). By removing as much harmful bacteria as possible, you help to create a safer environment for everyone.
About the Author
Dr. L. Blaine Kennington graduated from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in Chapel Hill before going to work for Clinical Research Associates. For 12 years, he served as a dentist in the United States Air Force, completing a residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry from 1994-1996. Moving to Castle Rock in 2002, he opened his practice and has been helping the city’s residents ever since. As a result of COVID-19, he and his team are taking extra precautions to maintain a safe and healthy environment, so if you are preparing for an upcoming appointment, visit our website or call (360) 274-9100 to find out what you need to do before you arrive.