Alcohol-Based Mouthwash Linked to Increased Risk of Gum Disease and Cancer

Alcohol-based mouthwash might increase the risk of developing health problems such as gum disease and some cancers, including colorectal cancer. According to a recent study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, researchers said they found a significant difference in the composition and number of bacteria in the participants’ oral microbiome after using alcohol-based Listerine Cool Mint mouthwash. 

They reported that two species of bacteria were significantly abundant after using the mouthwash daily. Fusobacterium nucleatum and streptococcus anginosus have been linked to several diseases, including gum disease and esophageal and colorectal cancer. The scientists also noted a decrease in a bacteria strain called Actinobacteria. 

The researchers did not collect information on the participants’ dietary habits or smoking. They also were unwilling to state that the public should stop using alcohol-based mouthwash. 

Participants used the Listerine mouthwash for three months and then a non-alcohol mouthwash for three months, or vice versa. 

The overall purpose of the trial was to find ways to reduce the incidence of gonorrhea, chlamydia, or syphilis in men who have sex with men. According to some dentists who reviewed the study, most mouthwashes found in pharmacies contain alcohol. These can cause a brief burning sensation in the mouth, an unpleasant taste, and a drying in the mouth. Alcohol also destroys almost all the bacteria in the mouth — both the good and the bad. Alcohol-free mouthwash does not destroy all the bacteria but creates a new balance of bacteria in the mouth. 

Researchers said people with problems with dry mouth, such as those undergoing radiation treatment as a side effect of some medications, or who have medical conditions, such as diabetes or Sjogren’s syndrome, may prefer alcohol-free mouthwash. People who have a history of alcohol abuse and those with extensive dental restorations might also prefer alcohol-free mouthwash. Some people use them daily to tackle bad breath or prevent periodontitis, but they should be aware of the potential implications. Ideally, long-term usage should be guided by healthcare professionals. 

Researchers reported that the use of the Listerine alcohol-based mouthwash showed an increase of opportunistic bacteria that can increase bacteria associated with periodontal disease, esophageal and colorectal cancer, and systemic diseases. They also found that Listerine hurt some good bacteria in the mouth. For instance, it decreases the abundance of the phylum Actinobacteria. Various Actinomyces species are part of the nitrate-reducing oral bacteria, which convert salivary nitrate to nitrite for further generation of the potent vasodilator nitric oxide, which is important for keeping blood pressure down. The nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway is an important mechanism linking the oral microbiome to cardiovascular health. Researchers urge that the study results do not mean that the general public should no longer use mouthwash. But if someone has severe problems with alcoholism , diabetes, smoking or other addictions, they should consult the doctor.