Mouthwash containing alcohol – good or bad?

A swig of mouthwash is the best way to sweeten your breath any time of the day. As the label on your mouthwash container says, they are giving you more than a breath makeover. You may find that mouthwashes can be plaque zappers, teeth whiteners, gum disease fighters and what not. But are these mouthwashes as effective as they say? Are alcoholic mouthwashes really safe for your mouth? Turns out that the answer is yes and no. It is yes, as the alcohol in a mouth wash gives short-term antibacterial shot to your mouth. However, mouth washes with alcohol content can be bad for more than one reason. A few cons about alcoholic mouthwashes are:

•          Alcoholic mouth washes can irritate mouth sores.
•          Fresh breath of a mouthwash is short-lived if not accompanied by proper oral hygiene. Remember, mouthwash can never be a substitute for brushing.
•          Research indicates that alcohol content in mouthwashes may cause oral cancer.
•          Mouthwashes with alcohol reduce saliva secretion in the mouth, resulting in dry mouth and poor oral health. Dry mouth further increases bacterial growth leading to tooth decay. 

Some of the other common side effects of using mouthwashes with alcohol are altered taste, teeth staining, enamel erosion, burning sensation, and ulcers.

Always consult your dentist before you choose your mouthwash for lasting results.

For dental hygiene services visit Green Meadow Dental, 3579 B Berlin Turnpike, Newington, CT 06111 (860)-865-0056. Families from Cromwell find the easy drive to Newington well worthwhile because or our expertise and modern facilities, our friendly dental team and the relaxing disposition of Dr. Mukund.We also service patients from surrounding areas including  Portland, Rocky Hill and Weathersfield. 

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