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Is Mouthwash Necessary?

woman using mouthwash

While your dentist stresses the importance of flossing daily and brushing your teeth at least twice a day, does your dentist ever encourage you to rinse with a mouthwash? Probably not. Well, that may make you question why there are so many choices of mouthwash on the dental aisle at the drug store, and it may make you question all of the claims that they are making with regards to bettering your oral health.

The question is, “Is mouthwash necessary?” The short answer is, “No.” However, there is more than a simple one-word response for most people. The truth of the matter is that mouthwash is not necessary for those who practice optimal oral hygiene on a daily basis. Brushing and flossing are enough when you do them every single day. Floss is the only tool that is designed to remove plaque and small food particles from the tight spaces between the teeth. Toothbrushes were designed to clean plaque from the surfaces of the teeth, to clean the tongue and gums, and to freshen your breath. If you are not flossing every day, you are leaving your gums vulnerable to gum disease because plaque is made up of millions of bacteria that will attack your gums. If you are not brushing your teeth at least twice a day, you are leaving even more plaque buildup on your teeth that will begin eating away at your tooth enamel.

While nothing can take the place of flossing and brushing, mouthwash can benefit those who do not floss or brush as often as they should; as well as benefit those who are more susceptible to gingivitis or cavities. Choosing a mouthwash with the American Dental Association’s seal of approval is essential because it will be guaranteed to have

Ingredients that will fight against cavities and help lower your chance for gum disease. Pregnant women can also benefit from rinsing with mouthwash throughout their entire pregnancy because the huge fluctuation in hormones causes the gums to become more easily irritated and infected. Gum disease in pregnant women has be directly linked to miscarriage, pre-term labor, and low birth weight babies. By rinsing with mouthwash throughout pregnancy, women can lower their risk for complications associated with oral health issues.

Most dentists would not label mouthwash as a “necessary component” to your oral health, but the benefits of mouthwash cannot be disputed. If you have questions regarding mouthwash and how it can benefit you, contact Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today.

Posted on behalf of Peninsula Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone: (843) 507-5481

FAX: (843) 577-4653

Email:

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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Our Patients Reviews

Absolutely phenomenal dental office. Not only are the dentists outstanding at their craft but, like every person in the office, they are incredibly friendly and genuine. And that is so important. I earnestly recommend Peninsula if you are looking for the highest quality care, expertise and, equally important, quality people. I would give them 10 stars if I could.
Matthew W. L.
The BEST dentist. Megan the hygienist is always so professional and thorough! Every time I have a visit here the staff from the front desk to back are always so efficient and courteous. Dr. McPherson is an amazing dentist and always takes time to explain everything in a way that makes sense. I will only go to Peninsula for all my dental needs!
Dana M.
Excellent staff and excellent experience from entering until leaving. Dr. McPherson is terrific!! Her assistant Kate is very knowledgeable and caring. I felt like I had two dentist attending to me. This was my first visit to this practice. I’ll always remain a patient due to my experience
John C.

Meet Our Doctors

Dr. James B. Wisner

Dr. James B. Wisner was raised in Charleston and attended Porter-Gaud High School. He graduated from The Honors College at The University of South Carolina in 1996 and received his D.M.D. degree in 2002 from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Wisner served in Las Vegas, Nevada and Spangdahlem, Germany as a Captain in the United States Air Force for three years where he completed an AEGD residency and was certified in Intravenous Conscious Sedation.

Dr. Caitlin McPherson

Dr. Caitlin McPherson was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. A graduate of Porter Gaud High School, she went on to receive her Bachelors of Science from Clemson University’s Calhoun Honors College. Dr. McPherson earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina’s College of Dental Medicine. She is an active member of The American Dental Association and The Academy of General Dentistry.

Dr. McPherson performs all aspects of general dentistry and is Invisalign certified. Dr. McPherson especially enjoys treating pediatric patients.

Dr. Luke E. Severance

Dr. Luke E. Severance believes dentistry goes far beyond just treating teeth – it’s about building lasting relationships and making a genuine difference in the lives of his patients.

Dr. Severance was raised in Florence, South Carolina and graduated with summa cum laude from the University of South Carolina. He went on to receive his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the Medical University of South Carolina and attended a General Practice Residency in Columbia, SC. At Prisma Health Richland Hospital in Columbia, he extended his knowledge and expertise in various areas from IV Moderate Sedation, Implant Surgery, CEREC Same-Day Crowns, Digital Dentistry, Pediatric Dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, and Extractions including Wisdom Teeth. He understands a dental visit can be fearful for some and his goal is to alleviate this fear by going above and beyond the need to help each person feel comfortable and cared for.

Outside the dental office, Dr. Severance enjoys spending time with his family and friends, fishing, hiking, playing soccer, watching the Gamecocks, and staying active in his church and community. Even in his free time, he studies the latest dental technology and attends dental seminars to stay up to date with the latest industry trends for delivering cutting edge dental treatments to all his patients. He is devoted to helping patients achieve optimal oral health and confident smiles which will positively impact their systemic and mental health.

Dr. Luke E. Severance

Address

538 Savannah Hwy
Charleston, SC 29407

Phone (843) 507-5481
Fax (843) 577-4653
Email

Opening Hours

Monday - Thursday 8am - 5pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm

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