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The effects of gargling (mouthwash) can help with oral hygiene management to some extent, but they are often overestimated or misunderstood. Here is a summary of the main benefits and limitations of mouthwash.
๐น **Main Effects of Garglin**
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1. **Bad Breath Removal (Halitosis Relief)**
- **Principle**: The **fragrance and alcohol** components contained in mouthwash temporarily mask bad breath in the mouth.
- **Limitations**: If the cause of the odor is not residual food or bacteria in the mouth but rather **stomach problems** or **tonsil stones**, the effectiveness is minimal.
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2. **Removal of bacteria in the oral cavity**
- **Principle**: The **antiseptics (e.g., chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium)** contained in the mouthwash temporarily eliminate bacteria in the oral cavity.
- **Effect**: It may help prevent periodontitis or gum inflammation.
- **Limitations**: The effect of plaque removal is minimal. It cannot replace brushing. Additionally, **long-term use may kill beneficial oral bacteria**, which could negatively impact oral health.
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3. **Improvement of Gum Health**
- **Principle**: Anti-inflammatory ingredients can reduce gum inflammation.
- **Effect**: It may provide some help in preventing gum diseases (gingivitis, periodontitis, etc.).
- **Limitation**: In cases of severe gum inflammation, **dental treatment is essential**, and rinsing alone cannot resolve the problem.
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4. **Tooth Decay Prevention**
- **Principle**: Some mouthwashes contain **fluoride (sodium fluoride)**, which strengthens teeth.
- **Effect**: Fluoride-containing mouthwash can help prevent cavities.
- **Limitation**: Mouthwash without fluoride has **a lower cavity prevention effect**. Cavity prevention **requires brushing and flossing**.
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5. **Relief of dry mouth (xerostomia)**
- **Principle**: Gargling can temporarily relieve dryness in the mouth.
- **Limitation**: Mouthwashes containing alcohol may actually **worsen dry mouth**. If you have dry mouth, it is recommended to use an **alcohol-free** mouthwash.
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๐น **Precautions and Disadvantages**
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1. Frequent use can actually be harmful.
- Beneficial bacteria in the mouth can also be removed, which may disrupt the balance of the oral ecosystem.
Prolonged use may cause **taste changes** or **brown discoloration of the tongue** (especially with products containing chlorhexidine).
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2. **Not a substitute for brushing**
- Gargling cannot remove plaque.
Brushing your teeth and using dental floss are the most effective methods of oral care.
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3. **Potential to Cause Dry Mouth**
- Products containing alcohol may worsen dry mouth, so people with dry mouth are advised to use alcohol-free products.
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๐น **Conclusion**
Gargling is a useful **supplementary oral care tool**, but it **cannot replace brushing and flossing**.
Reducing bad breath or preventing cavities can help to some extent, but when fundamental treatment is needed, visiting the dentist is essential.
- Using alcohol-free products is safer, and it is recommended to avoid excessive use.
- ๐ Recommended usage method: 1 to 2 times a day, after meals or before bedtime. It is best to use mouthwash after brushing your teeth and using dental floss.