When it comes to maintaining a sparkling smile and a healthy mouth, many people rely on the usual suspects: brushing, flossing, and normal mouthwash. But there is one more unsung hero in the world of oral care that has recently got a lot of attention for its efficiency – hydrogen peroxide. This small and cheap product can revolutionize your life and become one of the most important items you use in your everyday life to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Just think of having all the bad bacteria wiped out and at the same time having a clean set of teeth and a soothed throat all from one product. In this article, you will find out more about the gargling with hydrogen peroxide, how to do it properly, and why this powerful antiseptic should be in your medicine cabinet.
Advantages of Gargling with Hydrogen Peroxide
Using an oral hydrogen peroxide rinse can be beneficial for oral health due to its following properties:
1. Antibacterial Properties
Hydrogen peroxide has the potential to eradicate most of the bacteria present within the oral cavity. Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash has the ability to reduce bacterial count and hence reduce the probability of getting gum diseases, bad breath and tooth decay. It is effective in keeping the oral cavity clean because it destroys the cell walls of bacteria.
2. Whitening Effect
The most well-known benefits of gargling with hydrogen peroxide is the whitening of teeth. Notably, the hydrogen peroxide is used in most of the commercial teeth-whitening products that are on the market today. Replacing mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide can also be useful in rinsing off the surface stains from the teeth, thereby attaining white teeth in the long run.
3. Healing Mouth Sores
Hydrogen peroxide mouth rinse can also be used to minimise the healing time of mouth ulcers such as canker sores and small cuts. It reduces the likelihood of contracting an infection and enhances the rate of recovery by avoiding the formation of bacteria on the skin.
4. Alleviating Sore Throats
Gargling with hydrogen peroxide can help in easing the pain of a sore throat. The antiseptic action can reduce the amount of pathogens in the throat which may help reduce pain and inflammation.
5. Plaque Reduction
It is recommended that hydrogen peroxide mouthwash can be used frequently in order to reduce the formation of plaque. Hydrogen peroxide assists in breaking down the bacteria that make up the biofilm, which leads to healthier gums and fewer plaque issues.
How to Gargle With Hydrogen Peroxide?
It is important to gargle safely and with the right concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Usually, a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution that is available in drugstores is too strong to be used directly. It should be diluted with water, the ratio being 1:2, in which one of the parts is hydrogen peroxide and two parts are water. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Measure and Dilute: To prepare a cleaning solution, mix one part of 3% hydrogen peroxide with two parts of water.
- Gargle: Take a small quantity of the diluted solution in the mouth.
- Swish and Gargle: Rinse the solution in your mouth for about half a minute to a minute. Take the solution in your mouth and then tilt your head back and swish it around in your mouth for a few seconds and let it reach the back of your throat.
- Spit Out: To the solution, pour it into the sink and then spit it out. Do not swallow it.
- Rinse: Next, rinse your mouth with the hydrogen peroxide and spit it out, then rinse your mouth with plain water.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash Side Effects
As we have noted, hydrogen peroxide mouthwash has many advantages, but it is to be noted that it has some disadvantages as well. Its overuse or improper dilution can lead to:
1. Irritation and Sensitivity
Hydrogen peroxide is toxic when used in high concentrations or frequently and causes inflammation of the gum and other tissues in the mouth. This can lead to increased sensitivity and discomfort.
2. Enamel Damage
High concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can be somewhat harsh and can cause the wearing down of the tooth enamel if used consecutively. It should not be mixed with water in proportions other than the recommended ones and should not be taken in large quantities.
3. Gastrointestinal Issues
Hydrogen peroxide in any concentration is toxic and if ingested it leads to nausea, vomiting and other complications associated with gastrointestinal tract. It is also important to always ensure that you spit the solution after gargling with hydrogen peroxide.
4. Allergic Reactions
Hydrogen peroxide may produce some side effects in some people such as skin rash, itching and burning. If you have any of the following symptoms – swelling, itching or breathing difficulties, discontinue use of the product and seek medical advice.
Considerations and Recommendations
1. Consult a Dentist
You should consult your dentist before using hydrogen peroxide mouthwash as a part of your oral hygiene practice. They can suggest the most suitable toothpaste for your oral hygiene and also check if it is advisable for you to use it.
2. Use in Moderation
It is also important to note that hydrogen peroxide mouthwash should be used sparingly. It is advisable to take it occasionally, for instance, thrice a week rather than daily to reduce the side effects.
3. Proper Storage
Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in a cool dark area of the house preferably in a closed container and not exposed to direct sunlight. This is useful in maintaining its functionality and to prevent it from degrading.
Conclusion
Hydrogen peroxide is a very useful substance which can be used for gargling with several benefits like antibacterial effects, teeth whitening, sore throat relief, and treatment of mouth sores. But it should be used properly, and you should be aware of the the side effects that it might cause due to improper use. Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash is safe to use when you are using it in recommended doses as advised by a dentist.
