Salt water rinses are one of the oldest home remedies for mouth discomfort, and for good reason. They are inexpensive, gentle and soothing. But a salt water gargle is a comfort measure, not a daily cleaning routine or a cure for a dental problem.
What does a salt water rinse actually do?
Warm salt water can help rinse away food debris, soothe irritated gums and make mouth sores and sore throats feel better. Dentists often recommend gentle salt water rinses while a mouth heals after a procedure, such as a tooth extraction. It does not remove plaque the way brushing and cleaning between the teeth do, and it does not treat an infection.
How do you make a salt water rinse?
- Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.
- Swish gently around the mouth or gargle for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Spit it out. Do not swallow it.
- Repeat a few times a day while the area is sore, unless your dentist gives other directions.
Is it safe to gargle with salt water every day?
Occasional or short term use is generally safe for most adults. Using it many times a day for weeks without a reason is not necessary and can irritate tissues for some people. If you are on a sodium restricted diet, be careful not to swallow the rinse. The NHS advises that children should not use salt water rinses for toothache.
If you find yourself reaching for salt water every day, that is usually a sign something needs attention, such as bleeding gums, a recurring sore or a tooth that keeps aching.
When is a salt water rinse helpful?
- Sore or irritated gums
- Canker sores or minor mouth injuries, such as a bitten or cut tongue
- Healing after an extraction or wisdom tooth removal, once your dentist says to start, usually after the first day, and very gently
- A sore throat
When should you see a dentist instead?
- Gums that bleed regularly when you brush, which can be a sign of gum disease
- Tooth pain lasting more than two days
- Swelling of the gum, face or jaw, a bump on the gum or a fever
- A mouth sore that has not healed in two weeks
Preventive dental care in Palo Alto
For daily oral health, brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth matter far more than any rinse. Our oral health guide covers the basics. If something keeps bothering you, Palo Alto Oral Health on Middlefield Road can find the cause. Call (650) 321-9693 or request an appointment.
Source
This article provides general education and does not replace an individual examination.
