Mouthwash linked to heart issues, cancer.
Mouthwash: More Harm Than Good?
Mouthwash is a bathroom staple in many households, but risks tied to these minty antimicrobials could do more harm than good—harm that extends beyond a person’s pearly whites, according to a new comprehensive study.
While the number of ingredients and their concentrations vary among mouthwash brands, scientists have concluded that some ingredients in these oral hygiene products are linked to side effects ranging from minor skin irritation and headaches to life-threatening conditions like heart problems and cancer.
Researchers in Turkey examined 45 mouthwash formulas used by 17 commercial brands found in the five largest chain stores in Istanbul.
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They found 31 out of the 45 formulas (over 68 percent) contained glycerin, associated with kidney and liver deterioration, 29 (over 64 percent) included the known carcinogen sodium saccharin, and 28 (about 62 percent) contained propylene glycol—a chemical linked to organ failure when used in large doses.
Despite its link to tooth decay, the antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate was included in 7 of 45 formulas. Other ingredients, such as the plaque-reducing agent cetylpyridinium chloride and acid orange 7 dye, can cause tooth discoloration and staining.
Are These Chemicals Also Found in Toothpaste?
According to a paper published in the Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, the answer is yes. Mouth rinses practically have the same composition as toothpaste. Some overlapping chemicals include:
- Abrasives: Remove substances on tooth surfaces without scratching them.
- Binders: Prevent the product from drying out.
- Solvents: Dissolve ingredients so they can be mixed. Water makes up the majority of solvents, but alcohol is also used in mouth rinses.
- Foaming agents: Enhance the cleaning effect and remove dirt.
- Flavoring agents: Eliminate unpleasant smells and provide a refreshing taste. Examples include spearmint, peppermint, and eucalyptus.
- Coloring agents: Like titanium dioxide, which is used to make toothpaste white.
- Preservatives: Prevent the growth of microorganisms.
Is Mouthwash a Substitute for Toothpaste?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), mouthwash is not meant to substitute toothpaste but is a valuable addition. Swishing and gargling can help reach areas that are sometimes hard to reach with a toothbrush.
“The limited array of mouthwashes found on store shelves poses a concern for both oral and public health,” study authors wrote in the International Dental Journal. “Furthermore, the intricate composition of these products, consisting of numerous ingredients with the potential for adverse effects, warrants serious attention.”
Warnings, Recalls, and Other Risks
Several warnings and recalls have been released over the past decade regarding the dangers of mouthwash.
In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about a rare but severe allergic reaction to the antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate used for gum disease. According to the warning, chlorhexidine gluconate may cause wheezing and difficulty breathing, face swelling, hives, severe rashes, and shock, a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood flow is reduced.
In 2020, pharmaceutical repackaging company Lohxa issued a voluntary recall of a batch of chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse due to potential contamination with the bacteria Burkholderia lata. The recall of the defective product has since been terminated.
In a study published in the Nitric Oxide Society’s official journal, scientists linked mouthwash to Type 2 diabetes. Analyses showed that people who used mouthwash over twice per day had a significantly greater risk of pre-diabetes or diabetes compared to people who used mouthwash less frequently.
The ADA discourages children under 6 years old from using mouthwash unless directed by a dentist. Children may accidentally swallow it, leading to nausea, vomiting, and alcohol intoxication, depending on the amount of alcohol in the rinse.
Use of Both Mouthwash and Toothpaste Compounds Effects
“The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects and intended usage of the ingredients included in commercially available mouthwashes as well as to identify any possible adverse impacts,” the study authors wrote. “According to the research on toothpaste, many compounds that might cause harmful effects … can also be ingested through mouthwash, hence boosting the body’s concentration of these agents.”
It is critical, they continued, that dental care products containing chemicals with hazardous effects be eliminated of these substances, recommending further research in this area to ensure consumer safety.
How did the recall of Johnson & Johnson’s Listerine mouthwash highlight the potential risks associated with these products?
Ceutical company Johnson & Johnson issued a recall for its Listerine mouthwash due to possible contamination with harmful bacteria. The recall affected over 500,000 bottles of mouthwash, highlighting the potential risks associated with these products.
The Importance of Toothbrushing and Flossing
While mouthwash can be a valuable addition to oral hygiene routines, it should not be relied upon as a substitute for proper toothbrushing and flossing. The ADA recommends brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth with floss or interdental cleaners daily.
Conclusion
The comprehensive study conducted in Turkey raises concerns about the potential harms of using mouthwash. Although further research is needed to fully understand the impact of these products on human health, it is important for consumers to be aware of the potential risks associated with mouthwash use.
To ensure good oral health, it is recommended to consult with a dentist or dental professional for personalized advice on oral hygiene practices. While mouthwash can provide some benefits, it is essential to prioritize regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care to maintain optimal oral health.
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