Timing is crucial for mouthwash

DON’T rinse out straight after brushing, either with water or mouthwash, says Bernita Shelley.

She explains: ‘Fluoride, which is the active ingredient in toothpaste, works by stopping bacteria from producing the acid that erodes teeth. It also strengthens enamel. So you don’t want to immediately wash it all away. You can spit excess toothpaste out, but it’s important to make sure the fluoride is coating your teeth.’

Ben Atkins recommends using a fluoride-containing mouthwash a couple of times a day, in the middle of the day.

‘Use mouthwash after lunch or around tea time. This washes away any lingering bacteria and makes sure there is a top-up of fluoride throughout the day.’

Shelley recommends Fluorigard mouthwash, with is particularly high in fluoride, but gentle. ‘Beware of potent anti-bacterial mouthwashes such as Corsodyl, which should be used only if you have an abscess or infection,’ she says.

‘Even if it has been recommended by a dentist, it shouldn’t be used for longer than a week as the bacteria in the mouth become resistant to it. It can also cause discoloration and even staining of the teeth

that’s difficult to get rid of.’