Rinsing with Salt Water?!
Question: I've been told that rinsing with warm salt water is basically like using mouth wash. I used to use it for when I had a sore in my mouth, but I'm wondering if it also helps to kill bacteria etc etc.
Answers: I've been told that rinsing with warm salt water is basically like using mouth wash. I used to use it for when I had a sore in my mouth, but I'm wondering if it also helps to kill bacteria etc etc.
Actually, yes. Saline rinses DO kill bacteria. Many bacteria are vulnerable to varying degrees of salinity, including those in your mouth. It reduces inflamation as well. It's actually a great thing to do in your mouth. I've never heard of it working as a mouthwash, but it does kill bacteria, which in turn cause bad breath, so I guess in a round about way it works.
It would change the ph balance in your mouth so it would likely kill some bacteria. You can also rinse with peroxide which I think is better. But I agree that salt water is soothing when you have a sore.
I can't see it doing a whole lot to bacteria. Think about how much salt you eat just during the day. I prefer using straight peroxide. I know it sounds a little funky, but your mouth will never feel cleaner than that, and it gets stuff out of your teeth you didn't know was in there. It also whitened my teeth after a while. It tastes a lot like club soda, it just fizzes a lot more. Just remember to rinse your mouth out thoroughly.
Yes indeed, salt is a sterilizer and does help eliminate oral bacteria. As for being a good mouthwash, you can make it better by adding a teaspoon of Baking Soda to your salt water before gargling or rinsing. Did I mention it was a great healer....it is. Good luck and I wish you well.