Mouthwash is one method of maintaining oral hygiene and preventing various dental and oral health problems. But is it necessary to use mouthwash every day?
Benefits of Mouthwash
Mouthwash helps maintain oral hygiene by killing bacteria and germs that can lead to dental and oral issues. According to research conducted by Alida Agustina, a student of the Faculty of Dentistry at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), under the supervision of Drg. Josephine C. Paula Heryumani Sulandjari, MS, Sp.Ort(K) and Dr. Drg. Cendrawasih Andusyana Farmasyanti, M.Kes., Sp.Ort(K), propolis-based mouthwash at a certain concentration can reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus bacteria in users of fixed orthodontic appliances.
Risks of Daily Mouthwash Use
However, using mouthwash every day carries certain risks. Dr. Drg. Yulita Kristanti, M.Kes., Sp.KG(K), stated that excessive use of mouthwash can disrupt the natural oral flora. Additionally, mouthwashes that contain alcohol may cause dry mouth.
Natural Mouthwash Alternatives
As an alternative, you can use natural mouthwashes, such as a decoction of red betel leaves. This aligns with research conducted by Lis Makrifah, a student at FKG UGM, under the supervision of Drg. Heni Susilowati, M.Kes., Ph.D. and Prof. Dr. Drg. Regina T.C. Tandelilin, M.Sc., which found that “a 10% decoction of red betel leaves (Piper crocatum) can help improve oral hygiene status in individuals with moderate gingivitis.”
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Mouthwash can support oral hygiene, but it should be used wisely. Daily use may carry risks, making it important to also consider natural alternatives.
References
UGM, Dr. drg. Yulita Kristanti, M.Kes., Sp.KG.(K), Don’t Use Mouthwash Too Often, https://ugm.ac.id/id/berita/22369-jangan-terlalu-banyak-gunakan-obat-kumur/
Alida Agustina, drg. Josephine C Paula Heryumani Sulandjari, MS, Sp.Ort(K); Dr. drg. Cendrawasih Andusyana Farmasyanti, M.Kes.Sp.Ort(K), The Effect of Propolis Mouthwash on the Number of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in Users of Fixed Orthodontic Appliances, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/131056
Lis Makrifah, drg. Heni Susilowati, M.Kes., Ph.D., Prof. Dr. drg. Regina TC. Tandelilin, M.Sc., The Effect of Gargling with a 10% Red Betel Leaf Decoction (Piper crocatum) on Oral Hygiene Status in Individuals with Moderate Gingivitis, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/82001
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
