Understanding Mouthwash and its Effects on the Mouth
Mouthwash is an excellent addition to your oral hygiene routine as it helps to eliminate bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath and tooth decay. It is available over the counter and comes in different varieties, including fluoridated, antibacterial, and natural mouthwashes. Most people wonder whether their mouthwash is supposed to burn their mouth or not. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about mouthwash and its effects on your mouth.
What Causes the Burning Sensation from Using Mouthwash?
It is common for some people to experience a burning sensation after using mouthwash. This occurs when the alcohol present in the mouthwash comes into contact with an open wound or irritated area in the mouth. Additionally, if you use a mouthwash with high alcohol concentration, the burning sensation may increase, making it feel uncomfortable.
Do All Mouthwashes Contain Alcohol?
No. Mouthwashes come in different varieties, and not all of them contain alcohol. There are natural mouthwashes that are alcohol-free and use natural ingredients such as green tea and essential oils to combat the bacteria in your mouth. Fluoride and antibacterial mouthwashes may contain a small amount of alcohol, but their primary components do not include alcohol.
What are the Benefits of Using Mouthwash?
Mouthwash can help to eliminate bad breath, reduce the buildup of plaque, and prevent tooth decay. If you use an antibacterial mouthwash, it may also help to fight against gum disease and inflammation in the mouth.
The Risks of Using Mouthwash with High Alcohol Concentration
Mouthwash with high alcohol concentration is known for causing side effects such as a burning sensation and dry mouth. Using mouthwash frequently over time can cause the alcohol to enter the bloodstream and impact other parts of the body. This can create a dangerous situation for those who may struggle with alcoholism or are in recovery from alcohol addiction.
How to Use Mouthwash
The proper use of mouthwash is vital to get its benefits and avoid its side effects. It is recommended to use mouthwash after brushing your teeth and not to use it as a substitute for brushing. Rinse your mouth for about thirty seconds and spit it out. Avoid eating or drinking immediately afterwards to give the mouthwash enough time to work.
What are the Alternatives to Mouthwash?
If you do not want to use mouthwash, there are other alternatives that you can use to keep your mouth clean. Chewing gum is an excellent way to stimulate the production of saliva, which aids in fighting bacteria in the mouth. Regular brushing and flossing also help prevent the buildup of bacteria in your mouth.
When to Contact a Dental Professional
If you experience a burning sensation in your mouth for an extended period, it may be best to contact your dental professional. They can provide a personalized recommendation on the best mouthwash to use and how to safely incorporate it into your oral care routine.
The Bottom Line
Mouthwash provides numerous benefits, including reducing bad breath and fighting against tooth decay. A burning sensation after using mouthwash is normal, especially if you have an open wound or sore in your mouth. However, if the burning sensation is prolonged and uncomfortable, it is best to seek professional advice. Alternatively, there are other ways to keep your mouth clean, such as regular brushing and flossing, and chewing gum.
Common Questions and Answers
- Q: Can mouthwash cause dry mouth?
- A: Yes. Mouthwash with high alcohol concentration can cause dry mouth and other side effects.
- Q: Is it okay to swallow mouthwash?
- A: No. Mouthwash is intended for rinsing the mouth only, and swallowing it can cause harmful effects on your health.
- Q: Is it necessary to use mouthwash?
- A: No. While mouthwash is an excellent addition to your oral hygiene routine, it is not necessary to use it to maintain healthy oral hygiene.
- Q: How long should I use mouthwash?
- A: You should rinse for thirty seconds after brushing, and then spit it out. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using mouthwash.
References
- Herrera, D., Roldán, S., & Sanz, M. (2019). The periodontal abscess (II). Short-term clinical and microbiological efficacy of Lançol 0.2% mouthwash as adjunctive treatment to scaling and root planing compared to oral hygiene instructions alone: a randomized clinical trial. BMC oral health, 19(1), 1-9.
- Erdemir, E. O., Timur, S., Ozen, B., & Firat, D. (2014). The effect of a green tea extract-rich mouthrinse on oral malodor: a clinical study. The Journal of alternative and complementary medicine, 20(11), 852-856.
- Gurenlian, J. R., & Spolsky, V. W. (2017). Mouthrinses: A review of products and clinical efficacy. Compendium of continuing education in dentistry (Jamesburg, NJ: 1995), 38(10), e1.