As your dentist in Newark reopens for non-emergency appointments, one of their top priorities is making sure all of their patients are as safe from COVID-19 as possible. Because of this, they are following several of the CDC’s recommended safety protocols to prevent the transmission of germs in their office. One of these precautions involves asking patients to rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash before their appointment properly begins. Why is that the case? Can mouthwash keep you safe from COVID-19? Keep reading to find out.
What Is an Antimicrobial Mouthwash?
While they may appear similar, antimicrobial mouth rinses are a little different from the common mouthwashes you find at your local drugstore. Over-the-counter mouthwashes help reduce the risk of plaque, cavities, gum disease, and bad breath by clearing away oral bacteria. According to the CDC, if a product is “antimicrobial,” it is designed to kill various microscopic particles, including bacteria, parasites, and viruses.
Does Rinsing with an Antimicrobial Mouthwash Burn?
Many people hesitate to swish with mouthwash because it can cause an unpleasant burning sensation. Typically, this feeling is due to one of its active ingredients – alcohol. Luckily, the mouthwash your dentist will provide for you, called Oracare, instead uses activated chloride dioxide to eliminate microbes without creating a burning sensation. If you’re still feeling anxious about it, let your dentist know of your concerns.
Do Antimicrobial Mouth Rinses Kill COVID-19?
Antimicrobial mouthwashes were not designed to kill the germs that cause COVID-19. In fact, researchers are unsure of how exactly they affect the novel coronavirus. However, they have been proven to be incredibly effective against harmful microbes in your mouth, and for that, they are a worthwhile treatment. Typically, antimicrobial mouth rinses are used to treat mild to severe oral infections like gum disease.
Can Using Mouthwash Every Day Prevent COVID-19?
Most store-bought mouthwashes have been found to be up to 99% effective at killing the bacteria that cause bad breath, tooth decay, and the early stages of gum disease. They have not, however, been tested on the microbes that cause COVID-19 and are not a recommended way to avoid contracting the virus. Still, rinsing with mouthwash, coupled with daily brushing and flossing, is a great way to maintain your oral health, which keeps your immune system strong and helps you fight off infections like COVID-19.
Your dentist is doing everything they can to keep you safe from COVID-19, and that includes having you rinse your mouth out before your appointment begins. From enforcing social distancing to sterilizing their instruments, you can rest easy knowing you’ll be safe from infection while under your dentist’s care.
About the Author
Dr. Timothy Ganfield is a dentist in Newark, DE who pursued his dental doctorate at Temple University, graduating magna cum laude. He keeps up with latest advancements in dental technology, including dental implants, Invisalign, and Six Month Smiles. His practice follows strict dental safety protocol in order to keep patients infection-free. For more information on these precautions, visit Dr. Ganfield’s website or call (302) 444-8985.