Oral Benefits of Saltwater Rinse

Mouthwash or Saltwater?

Do you use mouthwash? It is effective in freshening breath and cleaning areas you can’t reach by simply brushing and flossing. However, if you want a rinse that addresses a wider array of oral concerns, a saltwater rinse might be a better bet. Saltwater is known for its healing properties, and rinsing with saltwater can even positively impact your respiratory health. Here, we take a look at the benefits of incorporating a saltwater rinse into your oral health routine.

Medicinal History of Salt

Salt has been used medicinally for thousands of years. In fact, the earliest known use of salt as medicine dates all the way back to 1600 BC. Some of the world’s oldest medical texts tout the benefits of salt, which was believed to dry out and disinfect wounds. The ancient Egyptians used salt as a base for anti-infective solutions, and Greek medicine used salt mixed with honey to disinfect cuts and wounds. The ancients were on to something, because salt has a wealth of healing properties, including an antibacterial effect. So, what does a saltwater rinse do for oral health?

Benefits of Saltwater Rinses

• A saltwater rinse helps stop the growth of bacteria in the mouth. Because saltwater rinses increase the pH of the mouth and make it more alkaline, they create a hostile environment for bacteria. This leads to a healthier mouth, with lower inflammation. In fact, recent research indicates that saltwater rinses significantly reduce the microbial count in the mouth, as well as decreasing dental plaque.
• Saltwater rinses promote healing. Because of their antibacterial properties, saltwater rinses are beneficial after a tooth extraction or another dental procedure. By reducing bacteria, they give the healing process a boost. After an extraction, they help prevent painful dry sockets.
• Saltwater rinses benefit respiratory health. They alleviate allergy symptoms, and saltwater rinses can also help prevent respiratory infections and decrease the severity of the respiratory infections you do get.
• A saltwater rinse can address a variety of oral health issues. It can soothe a sore throat, help with gingivitis, reduce irritation and inflammation, ease a toothache, and help heal canker sores.

How to Make (and Use) a Saltwater Rinse

A general rule of thumb for saltwater rinses is to dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water. Warm water is often more soothing than cool, and some recipes use additional ingredients like honey or hydrogen peroxide. It is better to spit out the rinse rather than swallowing it, and don’t use the rinse every day, unless directed to do so by your doctor, for a specific condition. Swish the solution around your mouth for 15 to 20 seconds, making sure to gargle it if your throat is sore, and then spit.

Trust Your Oral Care to Park 56

One of the best things you can do for your oral health is to schedule regular dental appointments with an experienced dentist. At Park 56 Dental Group, we offer pediatric, prosthodontics, endodontics, oral surgery, Invisalign®, emergency, and sedation dentistry, all at the highest level of treatment. Serving the Midtown, Central Park, Upper East Side, Park Avenue, and all surrounding Manhattan and New York areas, our practice is patient-centered and has hours to fit your schedule. Schedule your complimentary consultation today by contacting us online or calling us at (212) 826-2322.