When visiting a cosmetic dentist for treatment, you may find that he or she recommends that you use a mouth rinse as part of your routine care. In some cases, the mouth rinse is temporarily used after oral surgery or during gum disease treatment. In other cases, it's recommended solely as a cosmetic addition that will help improve breath freshness and potentially reduce stains. Here's a look at the two primary types of mouth rinses that your dentist may recommend and what to look for in the one you use.

Rinses For Cosmetic Purposes

If your cosmetic dentist suggests a rinse purely for cosmetic use, it's likely to help you keep bacteria at bay. This is especially common if you're struggling with dry mouth or a similar condition. You'll be advised to use the rinse a couple of times a day or particularly after meals in those situations.

You may also be advised to choose a rinse with added whitening power. These rinses have whitening agents that will help to subtly enhance a whitening treatment obtained from your cosmetic dentist or through an at-home whitening kit. For either of these purposes, you can choose an alcohol-free rinse for comfort. This is particularly important if you're suffering from dry mouth or problems with bacteria, because alcohol can dry your mouth out further and may cause stinging and discomfort in your gums.

Rinses for Therapeutic Uses

In situations where you've been diagnosed with gingivitis, gum disease or another health condition, your dentist may recommend that you use a rinse designed for therapeutic purposes. For example, some mouth rinses are made to help reduce tartar buildup, which is important for people who smoke or experience significant tartar accumulation. If you're struggling with gum disease, you may be advised to use an anti-bacterial or anti-microbial rinse that helps to keep your mouth healthier. Your cosmetic dentist may even suggest that you use an anti-cavity rinse that contains fluoride to protect your teeth from decay.

No matter what you're trying to accomplish, your cosmetic dentist may be able to find a mouth rinse that will help you achieve your goals. Cosmetic dentists are great resources for dealing with stains, decay and bacterial conditions as well as dry mouth and other concerns. If you have been struggling with your smile, talk with a cosmetic dentist today about what kind of mouth rinse might help you and how often you should use it.