Mouthwashes designed to maintain a healthy oral microbiome selectively target harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial species. These formulations differ significantly from broad-spectrum antiseptics, which can disrupt the delicate balance of the oral ecosystem, potentially leading to various oral health issues. For example, a mouthwash containing prebiotics aims to nourish beneficial bacteria, promoting their growth and activity within the oral cavity.
Maintaining the equilibrium of oral flora offers numerous advantages, including enhanced digestion through the initial breakdown of food in the mouth, strengthened immunity against pathogens entering the body through the oral cavity, and reduced risk of developing conditions such as halitosis, gingivitis, and opportunistic infections. Historically, oral hygiene practices focused primarily on eliminating all bacteria; however, modern understanding recognizes the crucial role of beneficial microorganisms in maintaining overall health and preventing disease.
