Mouthwash has long been used as a complement to maintaining oral hygiene and health. However, many still wonder: can mouthwash replace toothbrushing? To answer this, it is important to understand the function of each as well as research advances in the development of natural-based mouthwashes.
Main Functions of Mouthwash
Mouthwash helps freshen breath, reduce plaque-causing bacteria, and relieve mild irritation in oral tissues. However, it should be noted that mouthwash is not designed to mechanically remove plaque and food debris the way a toothbrush does. Therefore, brushing remains the primary method for cleaning teeth and gums.
Innovations in Natural-Based Mouthwash
In recent years, research has continued to explore safe and effective natural ingredients for mouthwash. One innovation comes from the use of mangosteen peel (Garcinia mangostana L.), known for its high antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Extract of mangosteen peel shows potential as a mouthwash ingredient, as it demonstrated no toxic effects on human gingival fibroblast cells at certain concentrations. This finding comes from research conducted by FKG UGM student Rayna Andhini Putri, under the supervision of drg. Aryan Morita, M.Sc., Ph.D. and Dr. drg. Retno Ardhani, M.Sc. The results indicate that mangosteen peel extract may serve as a safer natural candidate for mouthwash, while remaining effective in inhibiting the growth of microorganisms that cause oral health problems.
Still Not a Substitute for Toothbrushing
Despite its promising potential, mouthwash cannot replace the main function of brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily. A combination of toothbrushing, flossing, and rinsing is the best approach to maintaining overall dental and gum health.
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Mouthwash, including those made from natural ingredients such as mangosteen peel extract, can serve as a beneficial complement for oral health care. However, it should never be used as a substitute for brushing. Regular toothbrushing remains the foundation of good oral hygiene.
References
Rayna Andhini Putri, drg. Aryan Morita, M.Sc., Ph.D ; Dr. drg. Retno Ardhani, M.Sc., Cytotoxicity Assessment of Mangosteen Peel (Garcinia mangostana L.) Extract as a Mouthwash Candidate in Fibroblast Cell Culture, https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/249136
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: freepik
