When to rinse your mouth with saline?

You can rinse your mouth with salt water about 2 times a day, especially when a viral upper respiratory infection is suspected.

Gargling with salt water is a popular home treatment aid that improves sore throats, colds and mouth ulcers. Gargling with salt water can relieve throat pain and irritation by reducing inflammation, preventing the growth of bacteria.

Associate Professor Michael Lerner (Yale University School of Medicine, USA) said that the advantage of salt water over alcohol-based mouthwash is that salt water is less abrasive or irritates the throat lining. Natural and inexpensive brines.

You can rinse your mouth with salt water for about 10-15 seconds, 2-3 times a day. To do this, you take a large sip of salt water, just enough to be able to wedge in your throat conveniently. Tilt your head back a little and rinse your throat with saline solution for about 10-15 seconds. You can stir the salt water around your teeth and gums before spitting it out. Gargle with salt water 3-4 times, then, rinse your mouth again with clean water.

Associate Professor Michael Lerner lists 4 benefits of gargling with salt water properly at home as follows:

Reduces pharyngitis and clears the nasal passages: Conditions such as sinus infections, congestion, and tonsillitis can cause inflammation and sore throat. According to associate professor Michael Lerner, gargling with warm salt water can help dilute mucus, reduce swelling and infections or allergens that cause inflammation.

Prevention of upper respiratory tract infections: Associate Professor Michael Lerner recommends gargling with warm salt water for people suffering from symptoms of sore throat, especially for those suspected of having a viral upper respiratory tract infection or viral pharyngitis. Even gargling with water can reduce inflammation and prevent upper respiratory tract infections.

Reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth: Gargling with salt can reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, periodontitis, and gingivitis. It is often helpful for oral and gum health by keeping the mouth clean and reducing discomfort caused by mouth sores.

Clean leftover food debris: Similar to mouthwash, salt water gargling can remove food fragments from the mouth after eating and limit dental plaque, colorless or yellow film of bacteria on teeth.

Gargling with salt water after meals can help wash food debris out of the tonsils, which can sometimes prevent the formation of tonsil stones.

To make salt water at home, you should use purified, filtered or distilled water because tap water can have contaminants. Do not add too much salt as too salty concentration can affect the throat. You can dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup (30 ml) of warm water. However, it is best to buy saline solutions that have already been prepared at pharmacies.

Some people add ginger, lemon or honey to improve the taste. However, there is no data to suggest that this combination can affect the benefits of gargling with salt water.

Although saline solutions may be safe if swallowed, it's best to spit it out. For maximum effect, you should rinse your mouth with saline 1-2 times a day.

According to Medical News Today, people who are recovering from dental procedures can use saline solution to rinse their mouth. However, in the first few days, they should rinse their mouth gently and follow the dentist's instructions. People with high blood pressure or people with other medical conditions that need to limit sodium intake should talk to their doctor before taking.