Trusted Independent Brisbane Dentists in Chermside

Mouthwash or Salt Water Rinse

Are there any long term side effects of rinsing the mouth with salt water? “Does it weaken the tooth, or […]

Are there any long term side effects of rinsing the mouth with salt water?

“Does it weaken the tooth, or interfere with saliva secretion, or is it irreversibly abrasive to the taste buds?

How does a salt water rinse compare with dental mouthwashes?”

– Question from Stephanie in Chermside West, Brisbane

Dr David Kerr replies:

Salt water mouthwash rinses are an excellent short term treatment when you have wounds in the mouth, for instance, when you’ve had teeth removed.

The reason they are so good is that the salt is not only a natural disinfectant, but it also removes any swelling from the tissues. So using salt water for two or three weeks post surgery, or if you have an infection or a mouth ulcer, works really well as a short term measure.

How does using salt water compare to rinsing with a mouthwash?

Many mouthwashes have alcohol in them – some as much as 20%, which is a big problem, and that increases the risk of mouth or oral cancer, which is a growing problem in Australia.

I only ever recommend two mouth rinses – one is Colgate NeutraFluor 220, which is useful for people with concerns of tooth decay. It is useful if you’ve had tooth decay in the past. It is also useful if you are over 40+ and have some gum recession – when the gums recede, the exposed part of the tooth where there is no enamel decays 8 times quicker than if it wasn’t exposed.

Brushing your teeth is a necessary part of a healthy dental routine.For someone who’s trying to protect from decay, or is susceptible to gum problems, where they need a chlorhexidine or a bacterial mouth rinse, really the best one by far is called Curasept. The reason it’s so good is that it won’t stain the teeth like many other chlorhexidine mouth rinses.

Do you recommend using mouth washes daily?

The chlorhexidine mouthwashes have a residual effect, so using it for 2 weeks and then stopping for 3 months is as good as using it every day.

The only mouthwash we recommend you use every day is one with fluoride.

How about off-the-shelf mouthwashes?

Many of the ones you can buy in the supermarket don’t do much or they have side effects that you don’t want, such as the presence of alcohol which, as mentioned increases the risk of mouth or oral cancer.

Before you spend your money, do your research or consult with your dentist about what is best used (if any at all) for your own personal situation.

Got a question for the dentist? Ask here >

Recent Blog Posts

Gum Receding Brisbane

Understanding the Risks of Gum Receding

"I've noticed that one tooth is growing longer than the rest. Sometimes it looks less red and doesn't bleed, but […]
View Post
Bad Breath Causes

Exhale with Confidence: A Deep Dive into What Causes Bad Breath?

“Despite my efforts to maintain good oral health, I've developed a bitter taste in my mouth. Any ideas on what […]
View Post

There Is No Need To Fear

Fearing or not visiting the dentist is common. But there is a solution…
View Post
1 2 3 23

What Our Patients Are Saying

"When you’re prepared to drive more than 2000km to visit the dentist

it says everything you need to know about the service from the incredible team at Today’s Dentistry!"
Ross McHutcheon

"After 30 years of being terrified and avoiding dentists I have finally found "the one".

I could not recommend this place more. From the staff to the facilities, I have absolutely nothing to fault. My phobia is
gone and I will go nowhere else."
Lauren West

"The interior of the dentist feels more like a 5 star hotel spa and provides a very comfortable,

almost luxurious experience.
I highly recommend this dentist, especially if you suffer with anxiety or a fear of dentistry."

Adele Rooney

Get A Custom Dental Roadmap

Dental roadmap in Brisbane

Your first visit at Today’s Dentistry is all about creating a Dental Roadmap so you know exactly what condition your teeth and gums are in, and what your options are for treatment.

Your first appointment includes:

An Intraoral Scan displayed on our chair-side TV so you see what we’re seeing.
A review of your Dental Roadmap, including interest-free payment plan options.
Diagnostic X-Rays to spot any hidden issues.

Our Ratings

todays dentistry google reviews

4.9 (159 reviews)

todays dentistry facebook reviews

4.9 (145 reviews)

todays dentistry true local reviews

4.9 (40 reviews)

Today's Dentistry Location Best in Chermside, Brisbane

Today's Dentistry
Is Located At

91 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside

Opening Hours:

Mon - Thu 8.30am - 8pm

Fri 8.30am - 2pm

Phone