Have you ever wondered how to rinse your mouth with salt water? It’s actually quite simple and only requires a few items that you probably already have in your kitchen. First, you’ll need to gather some supplies. You’ll need a cup, some warm water, and a teaspoon of salt. Once you have all of those items, simply mix them together and gargle for about 30 seconds. Spit the mixture out and repeat as necessary. Rinsing with salt water can help to soothe a sore throat, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria. So next time you’re feeling under the weather, give it a try!
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What is salt water and why is it good for you?
Salt water is simply water that has had salt added to it. The benefits of salt water are many, including the fact that it can help to cleanse your mouth and remove bacteria. It can also help to soothe a sore throat, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, salt water can help to break down plaque and tartar on your teeth.
How to make saltwater rinses
To make your own saltwater rinse, Sulitzer advises following these three steps.
- Use warm water, because warmth is more relieving to a sore throat than cold water. Warm water will also help the salt dissolve into the water more effectively.
- Use any type of salt you have available, and consider additional ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or honey for additional healing and soothing properties. Most saltwater rinse recipes call for 8 ounces of warm water and 1 teaspoon of salt. However, if your mouth is tender and the saltwater rinse stings, decrease the salt to a 1/2 teaspoon for the first 1 to 2 days.
- Bring water to a boil, then remove from heat, add salt, and stir. Let the saltwater cool to a warm temperature before rinsing with it. Once you have finished your rinse, discard leftover solution to avoid contamination.
How to use salt water
When you rinse your mouth with salt water, the salt helps to remove bacteria and debris from your teeth and gums. The salt also helps to reduce inflammation in your gums. To use salt water to rinse your mouth, mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water. Swish the mixture around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
When to use salt water
There are a few different instances where it is beneficial to rinse your mouth with salt water. One is after you have had oral surgery, as this can help to keep the area clean and prevent infection. Another is if you are experiencing canker sores, as the salt water can help to speed up the healing process. Finally, if you have a cold or sore throat, gargling with salt water can help to reduce swelling and pain.
How often should you rinse your mouth with salt water?
Salt water is a natural disinfectant and can help to cleanse your mouth and remove bacteria. It is important to rinse your mouth with salt water regularly, especially after eating or drinking, to help keep your mouth healthy and free from infection.
How often you should rinse your mouth with salt water will depend on your individual needs. If you have a cold or flu, it is recommended that you rinse your mouth with salt water every four hours to help relieve symptoms and speed up recovery. If you are healthy and do not have any oral health problems, rinsing your mouth with salt water once or twice a day should be sufficient.
If you have any concerns about how often you should be rinsing your mouth with salt water, speak to your dentist or doctor for advice.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the high alcohol content in some mouthwashes can irritate your mouth, particularly your gums. Saltwater rinses can be safer alternatives while also killing bacteria and keeping your mouth clean.
In addition to stopping bacterial growth, saltwater rinses have other benefits. These include reducing the amount of plaque in your mouth and promoting a safe recovery from dental procedures.
Saltwater rinses stop growth of bacteria in your mouth
Saltwater rinses can be helpful in stopping growth of bacteria in your mouth. Dr. Marc Lazare, DDS, says that they cut down on the acidic environment that allows bacteria to thrive.
“Saltwater rinses work by increasing the pH- balance inside the mouth, creating a much more alkaline oral environment in which the bacteria are no longer able to thrive,” Lazare says. “The harmful bacteria prefer the acidic environment, so once that is neutralized, the mouth can become less inflamed and healthier.”
A small 2017 study demonstrated that saltwater rinses are effective at decreasing the dental plaque and oral microbial count, when used alongside routine plaque control.
Help in the healing process after dental procedures
Lazare says that saltwater rinses assist in the healing process after dental procedures like tooth extractions.
“Saltwater promotes healing after dental procedures because it promotes gingival fibroblast migration, and an increased amount of extracellular matrix components, which serve to regulate wound repair activity,” he says. “Saltwater does not irritate the soft tissues in the mouth, and it will not burn or cause mouth pain.”
Using saltwater rinses can also prevent painful dry sockets (alveolar osteitis) that can occur after extractions, according to a 2015 studyTrusted Source.
Respiratory health benefits
A 2019 research reviewTrusted Source found that saline water gargling (as well as nasal irrigation) may be able to provide protection against the common cold.
Similarly, a small 2020 studyTrusted Source found that saline water gargling can be effective in reducing upper respiratory infections by an average of 2 1/2 days.
The study’s researchers suggested that it can provide potentially safe and effective intervention for people diagnosed with COVID-19 after contracting the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Saltwater rinses have multiple benefits but should be used differently depending on what they are used for.
After tooth extraction
“Wait for a complete 24 hours after extraction before using mouthwash,” says Dr. Henry Hackney, DMD. “Swish the rinses very gently to not damage the blood clot(s). You can do them several times a day, after eating, to ensure that your mouth stays clean. They remove the bacteria from the aching area, preventing the further spread of infection.”
Periodontal disease
“Saltwater rinses can be useful to those living with periodontal disease,” says Dr. Neil Gajjar, BSc, DDS, MAGD, FADI, FPFA, FICD, FACD, Cert. IV Sedation. “To make your own rinse, simply put a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and then rinse your mouth with the warm saltwater.”
Toothache
“For a toothache, the saltwater will aid in soothing the pain temporarily until you are able to see the dentist,” says Dr. Joi M. Fremont, DDS.
Gum infection
“Saltwater rinses may help with gum infections, by drawing out excess fluid in the infected tissues,” Fremont says. “But like a toothache, treatment by the dentist is necessary to remove the bacteria, plaque, or tartar that caused the infection.”
Sore throat
“Gargle with saltwater for 15 to 30 seconds, then spit it out, and repeat,” Hackney says. “It will soothe the sore throat and wash out bacteria.”
Canker sores
“Saltwater rinses can cause your canker sores to sting, but they’re still good to use,” Gajjar says. “Simply put a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and rinse with warm saltwater.”
Allergies
“Saltwater won’t cure an allergy but can help alleviate some of its symptoms,” Hackney says. “If your throat is swollen, gargling with saltwater can bring relief.”
Are there any side effects of using salt water?
Yes, there are some side effects of using salt water. They include:
- Dry mouth: Because salt water can be dehydrating, it can leave your mouth feeling dry. Drink plenty of water after using salt water to help combat this.
- Sore throat: Salt water can also irritate your throat, so if you have a sore throat to begin with, it may make it feel worse. Gargle slowly and be sure not to swallow any of the salt water.
- Stomach upset: If you drink too much salt water, it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea. Be sure to drink plenty of plain water as well to stay hydrated and help flush out your system.
Conclusion
Rinsing your mouth with salt water is a simple and effective way to cleanse your mouth and promote oral health. There are many benefits to rinsing with salt water, including reducing inflammation, preventing infection, and promoting healing. To rinse your mouth with salt water, simply dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish the solution around in your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit the solution out and rinse your mouth with plain water afterwards. You can do this several times a day as needed.
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