Use Mouthwash In Moderation

Mouthwash Linked to Oral Cancer

Some of the mouthwashes available on the market today advertise as being as a substitute to and just as effective as tooth brushing.  These products tout their easy availability and the benefit of keeping your breath fresh all day long.  However, it turns out, according to a newly published study from the University of Glasgow, in the journal Oral Oncology, that overuse of mouthwash is linked to oral cancer.

Overuse of Mouthwash 

A study of 1,962 oral cancer sufferers and 1,993 healthy people in thirteen centers in nine countries found that rinsing with such products more than three times per day was associated with an increased risk of the development of mouth and throat cancer.  This is due to cancer causing chemicals in the mouthwashes being absorbed by the mucosal lining of the mouth and throat tissues.  The evidence suggests that overuse of mouthwashes to mask denture odors, periodontal disease, bad breath, smoking, or alcohol intake increases the risk of oral cancer.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309

Alcohol-Free Chlorhexidine Mouthrinse

Chlorhexidine mouthrinse is a prescription rinse that specifically attacks the bacteria that cause gum inflammation, and is commonly used in patients with periodontal conditions.

A study by Todkar compared the efficacy of alcohol-free chlorhexidine mouthrinse, chlorhexidine containing alcohol and a placebo of water in terms of controlling gingival plaque and reduction of gingival inflammation in patients with gingivitis.

Measurements were made at the beginning, after 14 days and after 28 days.
The study concluded that the alcohol-free rinse was as effective as the one containing alcohol in controlling plaque and reducing gingival inflammation, and can be recommended for periodontal patients, especially those for whom the use of alcohol may lead to side effects.

Reported in: Dentistry Today, Feb., 2013, from Oral Health & Preventive Dentistry, Fall 2012, vol 10, issue 3, pp 291-296.


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc.,
Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics
(661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com
5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309 (map)

Do Mouthwashes Work?

How Do Other Mouthwashes Compare to Listerine?

A recent study compared the effects of certain commercially available mouthwashes on the bacteria that cause decay and the (bio)films they develop on teeth.

Mouthwash Study

Four mouthwashes were studied, one of which contained chlorhexidine gluconate, and another was Listerine. The mouthwashes were applied to the bacteria biofilms and then the viability of biofilms investigated.

Listerine Prevents Tooth Decay

It was found that the bactericidal potency of Listerine was significant, and could be used to prevent decay.
Source:  Oped Dent J., 2012;6:23-30


Robert G. Tupac, DDS, FACP, Inc., Diplomate, American Board of Prosthodontics (661) 325-1275 | www.drtupac.com 5060 California Ave., #170, Bakersfield, CA 93309