Using A Homemade, Alcohol-Free Mouthwash For Your Bonded Teeth

Dentist Blog

If you have had your teeth bonded using a composite resin, you may have been told by your dentist not to use a mouthwash containing alcohol because it detrimental to the bonding agent by softening the resin. Instead of using a commercial mouthwash that uses alcohol, try the following homemade mouthwash.

What You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following supplies and ingredients. You can find the ingredients in most supermarkets and pharmacies.

• One-pint mason jar with lid
• Small glass or cup
• Two cups of warm water
• Four tablespoons of salt
• 15 drops of peppermint oil
• Seven drops of clove oil

The salt water helps cleanse the surface of your teeth and gums, and it kills bacteria. The peppermint oil in this mouthwash serves as an anti-bacterial agent. It helps kill germs that can lead to gum disease, as well as those that cause bad breath.

Clove oil is also a potent ingredient for killing germs and eliminating bad breath. However, the oil is very strong and could cause irritation, so do not use more than the amount listed.

Instructions

Once you have everything you need, follow the instructions below to make and use your alcohol-free mouthwash.

1. Pour the water and salt into the mason jar.
2. Let the salt dissolve for 10 minutes.
3. Add both the clove and peppermint oils.
4. Screw the lid on tightly, then shake vigorously to mix the ingredients. The mouthwash is ready for its first use. 
5. Brush your teeth as usual.
6. Pour a quarter of a cup of the mouthwash in your glass or cup.
7. Rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds, rolling the mixture between your teeth and paying particular attention to the areas where your teeth are bonded.
8. Spit out the mixture.
9. Rinse your glass or cup, and fill it with a quarter cup of warm tap water.
10. Rinse your mouth for an additional 30 seconds, and spit the water out.
11. Put the lid back on the mason jar, and store it in a dark place. When you are ready to use it the next day, shake the jar for a few seconds to ensure the oils are dispersed, since they could float to the top.

Using the above mouthwash once a day can keep your teeth clean without destroying the composite bonding agent. If you have more questions or any concerns about how to take care of your bonded teeth, you may want to ask your cosmetic dentist, like P. Jeffrey Lowe, DMD, PA, for advice.

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21 March 2016