Ask the Doctor

Is mouthwash harmful?

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I want to know if there are any health risks from using mouthwash on a daily basis.

Gideon (by SMS)

 

Most mouthwashes found in pharmacies contain alcohol. These can cause a brief burning sensation in the mouth, an unpleasant taste, and a drying in the mouth. The alcohol also destroys almost all the bacteria in the mouth — both the good and the bad. Alcohol-free mouthwash does not destroy all the bacteria but creates a new balance of bacteria in the mouth. Alcohol-based mouthwashes are widely available. The public may use them daily to tackle bad breath or prevent periodontitis, but they should be aware of the potential implications. Ideally, long-term usage should be guided by healthcare professionals. Mouthwash with alcohol may be a contributing factor if someone is also a smoker, alcoholic, or eats unhealthily, but research doesn’t suggest this is the cause of cancer alone.  The type of mouthwash you should use is based on specific dental needs, which can be discussed at a biannual dental checkup.

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