mouthwash
Definition
- Noun:
- A liquid antiseptic or therapeutic solution used for rinsing the mouth, gargling, and maintaining oral hygiene. It is typically used after brushing teeth to freshen breath, kill bacteria, or help prevent plaque and gingivitis.
Usage
- Mouthwash is used as a countable noun (a mouthwash, two mouthwashes) or, more commonly, as an uncountable noun referring to the substance itself.
- It is typically used by taking a small amount into the mouth, swishing it around for a specified time (e.g., 30 seconds), and then spitting it out. It is not meant to be swallowed.
Examples
- Noun:
- She uses an antiseptic mouthwash every morning and night.
- The dentist recommended a fluoride mouthwash to help strengthen my tooth enamel.
- This brand of mouthwash effectively kills germs that cause bad breath.
Advanced Usage
- "Alcohol-free mouthwash": A type of mouthwash that does not contain ethanol, often recommended for people with dry mouth or those sensitive to the burning sensation of alcohol-based formulas.
- I prefer an alcohol-free mouthwash because it doesn't sting.
Variants and Related Words
- Mouth rinse: A more general term that can be synonymous with mouthwash, though it may sometimes refer to non-medicated rinses.
- Gargle (noun/verb): While a gargle can be a liquid for rinsing the throat and mouth, "mouthwash" is more specific to oral care. As a verb, it means to rinse the throat with liquid.
- Antiseptic rinse: A phrase describing the primary function of many mouthwashes.
Synonyms
- Oral rinse
- Dental rinse
- Gargle (in context)
Related Phrases
- To use mouthwash: The standard phrase for the action.
- Remember to use mouthwash after you floss.
- A swig of mouthwash: An informal phrase for a portion of mouthwash.
- He took a swig of mouthwash from the bottle.
Noun
-
a medicated solution used for gargling and rinsing the mouth
