What is the purpose of hydrogen peroxide in the rinse?
A. There are three main reasons why hydrogen peroxide is in the rinse. First, the foaming action of the hydrogen action acts as a cleansing agent against plaque and food particles. This is especially important with the ortho rinse and well-documented studies have shown that a 1.5% solution of the hydrogen peroxide is very beneficial for patients in braces. Secondly, the oxygenating agent helps the aerobic bacteria which are typically non-pathogenic. Finally, although this effect is minimal, the hydrogen peroxide acts against the anaerobic (chiefly pathogenic) bacteria and complexing of the other ingredients.