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Mouthwash with Alcohol Can Leave Your Teeth and Gums Damaged


Irvine, CA
Posted on 8/24/2020 by Dr. Christianne Lee
Image of mouthwash with alcohol in it at Irvine Dentistry.
Some types of mouthwashes are better suited to certain types of people than others. However, we generally do not recommend alcohol-based mouthwashes except under peculiar circumstances. That's because, under normal circumstances, they can do more harm than good. In fact, rather than help, they can exasperate existing dental health problems like dry mouth, gum inflammation, tooth sensitivity, etc.

Besides burning sensations in the mouth and an unpleasant aftertaste, alcohol-based mouthwashes are also notorious for causing dry mouth. The shortage of saliva in the mouth can give rise to myriads of health issues. Dry mouth can cause difficulties with chewing, swallowing, and speaking. The regular use of alcohol-based mouthwashes can be counterproductive because it can cause chronic dry mouth that leads to myriads of dental problems you've been trying to prevent in the first place. When there is no adequate supply of saliva in the mouth to flush out food debris and bacteria buildup and supply minerals to fortify the teeth, serious dental problems can quickly emerge, including gum infection, tooth decay, and even tooth loss.

Better Alternatives to Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes


Results of several research show that non-alcoholic mouthwashes have many advantages over their alcoholic counterparts. Not only are they free from alcohol that causes dry mouth and other unpleasant side effects, nonalcoholic mouthwashes also significantly enhance the sheen and strength of teeth.

Many nonalcoholic mouthwashes in the markets today contain ingredients that prevent various dental problems, including dry mouth, plaque and tartar buildup, tooth decay, gum diseases, halitosis (dry mouth), etc. Some are made of natural, organic ingredients that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects. Some even come with special teeth whitening ingredients.

Want to learn more about alternatives to nonalcoholic mouthwashes to shore up your oral health? Contact out office at (949) 656-2933 to schedule a dental exam and consultation. We will help you choose the most-suitable nonalcoholic mouthwashes and other oral health care products depending on your unique needs.

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