DIY Mouthwash: Is It Effective?

DIY mouthwash

Do It Yourself (DIY) projects have been popping up all over the place.  One common project we’ve seen show up a lot is DIY Mouthwash. How do you know if mouthwash you make at home is as good as a store bought bottle?  The answer depends on what you put in it and what you expect to get out of your DIY mouthwash.

Mouthwash serves two purposes

Remineralizing weak enamel on your teeth, and eliminating bacteria that grows in your mouth.  When you’re making your DIY mouthwash, be sure to ask yourself how the DIY mouthwash will be helping you.  Is it actually remineralizing your teeth and killing bacteria, or is it just freshening your breath?  We recommend a mouthwash that successfully does all three!

For the breath-freshening aspect of your mouthwash, make sure the flavoring ingredient doesn’t contain fermentable sugar or a staining agent, otherwise you increase your risk of developing cavities and/or stains.  Xylitol, usually found in dental gum, is an example of an acceptable non-fermentable sugar.

Some essential oils are more effective against bacteria than others.  Clove, mint, and thyme have been scientifically proven to inhibit bacterial growth.  Make sure you’re using essential oils, not artificial flavoring.

To add minerals back to your teeth, make sure you have calcium carbonate in your mouthwash as well.  Calcium carbonate has been proven to add minerals back to scratched enamel.  We are in strong favor of fluoride, as well.

When you are looking for a good DIY mouthwash recipe, do thorough research.  Look up ingredients before you put them in your mouth!  And always remember, there is no alternative to regular flossing and brushing!  As your dentist in Greensboro, NC, we want you to DIY in confidence, safety, and good dental health!

Stay tuned- next week, we’ll be talking about DIY toothpaste!