Doctor Warns of Cancer Risks Linked to Alcoholic Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a common and widely used part of daily oral hygiene routines. However, a recent warning from a British surgeon has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with certain types of mouthwash. According to Dr. Karan Rajan, a surgeon working within the NHS, individuals should be cautious when selecting mouthwash, particularly those containing alcohol.

The Risk of Alcoholic Mouthwash

Dr. Rajan, speaking on a podcast focused on dental health, emphasized that people should avoid alcoholic mouthwashes unless absolutely necessary. He explained that using alcohol-based mouthwash can negatively affect the delicate oral microbiome, which is the ecosystem of bacteria in the mouth that plays an essential role in overall oral health.

“People shouldn’t be using alcoholic [mouthwash] if they don’t need to. We are increasingly appreciating that we have an oral microbiome, and these can be affected by alcohol,” Dr. Rajan stated during his appearance on the podcast.

The oral microbiome, composed of both good and bad bacteria, is crucial for maintaining the health of teeth and gums, freshening breath, and supporting digestion. However, Dr. Rajan warned that alcohol-based mouthwashes can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to significant long-term health consequences.

Potential Health Problems Linked to Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes

According to Dr. Rajan, regular use of alcoholic mouthwash may be linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. “Some early evidence suggesting that chronic mouthwash use has been linked, from a correlation point of view, to increasing rates of colorectal cancers because of that disrupted oral microbiome,” he explained.

Dr. Rajan also noted that the alcohol content in these mouthwashes is not the same as drinking an alcoholic beverage, as it contains a much higher concentration of alcohol. Moreover, the exposure time of alcohol to the mouth is much longer, which could heighten the risk of health problems.

Beyond cancer risks, alcohol-based mouthwashes can lead to a range of uncomfortable conditions. Dr. Rajan pointed out that these mouthwashes may cause burning sensations in the mouth, mucosal pain, and even ulcers. They are also known to cause enamel erosion, softening of composite filling materials, and teeth staining.

The Drying Effect and Impact on Bad Breath

Another concern with alcohol-based mouthwash is its tendency to dry out the mouth. Experts, including Dr. Rajan, have pointed out that this dryness can make bad breath worse. A dry mouth can create a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria, further exacerbating unpleasant odors and reducing the mouth’s natural ability to combat harmful germs.

Dr. Rajan is not alone in voicing concerns about alcohol in mouthwash. In his podcast, he spoke with Whitney DiFoggio, an American dental hygienist, who also advocated for more natural oral hygiene practices. “You don’t need a mouthwash,” she said. “Manually brushing the plaque and debris from your teeth with a toothbrush with something to get between your teeth as well as [covering] the fronts, backs, tops and bottoms is what you need.”

NHS Advice on Mouthwash Usage

The National Health Service (NHS) offers guidance on the use of mouthwash, recommending that those who wish to use mouthwash select products containing fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay. However, the NHS also advises against using mouthwash immediately after brushing your teeth. This is because mouthwash can wash away the concentrated fluoride from toothpaste that is left on your teeth. It is better to use mouthwash at a different time of the day, such as after lunch, and avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterward.

In conclusion, while mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine, it is important to select the right product and use it responsibly. Dr. Rajan’s warning about the risks of alcohol-based mouthwashes highlights the need for awareness when choosing oral care products. Always read labels and consider alternatives if you are concerned about the potential long-term effects on your health.