Rumors circulated on social media that using an antiseptic mouthwash could prevent COVID-19. This information is not correct, but also not completely wrong. There are important things that need to be understood regarding the effectiveness of mouthwash in preventing COVID-19.
The use of antiseptic mouthwash does not directly prevent Corona virus infection. Even so, regularly gargling with mouthwash is still a good thing to do because it can maintain the cleanliness and health of your mouth and teeth.
Facts Behind Using Antiseptic Mouthwash in Preventing COVID-19
Once inside the body's cells, the virus can no longer be cleaned with antiseptics. So, gargling using an antiseptic mouthwash cannot prevent Corona virus infection.
Mouthwash that contains chlorhexidine, flavonoids, and essential oils are believed to kill the virus in the saliva of an infected person, thereby reducing the number of viruses that multiply in the body. Even so, the number is not significant.
The habit of gargling with mouthwash, which is accompanied by brushing teeth and flossing regularly, can maintain optimal oral and dental hygiene. That way, the risk of developing various disorders in the mouth, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, can be reduced.
Dental and oral health affects the body's immune response, including the lungs, to disease. A study says that people with gum disease have a higher risk of developing respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis.
Poor oral health can also increase the risk of developing respiratory complications in people with chronic lung disease.
So, it can be concluded that maintaining healthy teeth and mouth, one of which is by gargling, can indeed reduce your risk of getting COVID-19.
How to Prevent Corona Virus Infection
- Wash hands with running water and soap or with hand sanitizer
- Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- Stay at home if you don't have anything important
- Use a mask when leaving the house
- Apply physical distancing when in public
- Maintain your immune system by eating a healthy diet, drinking enough water, exercising regularly, avoiding stress, and getting enough sleep
Mouthwash does not prevent direct Corona virus infection. However, maintaining hygiene and dental and oral health can be beneficial for the body's immune system so it is good to do, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic as it is today.
So, there's nothing wrong with gargling with antiseptic mouthwash, in addition to brushing your teeth regularly at least 2 times a day and doing flossing. However, use mouthwash according to the instructions for use listed on the packaging.
Do not swallow mouthwash or use it too often. Ask your doctor first if you want to give mouthwash to young children.
If you have complaints or questions about dental and oral health, you can chat directly with the dentist through the ALODOKTER application. In this application, you can also make a consultation appointment with a dentist at the hospital if an immediate examination or treatment is needed.
