With or Without Alcohol?: Best Mouthwashes to Use, According to Research
The use of mouthwashes has become one of the most common practices in hygiene routines for millions of people, who primarily seek to feel fresher, reduce plaque, and improve gum health.
TL;DR
- Mouthwash use is common for freshness, plaque reduction, and gum health.
- Research questions the safety and effectiveness of certain mouthwash ingredients, like alcohol and chlorhexidine.
- Mouthwashes with alcohol or essential oils may be more effective at reducing plaque than alcohol-free versions.
- When used alongside brushing, the difference in effectiveness between alcohol-containing and alcohol-free mouthwashes diminishes.
- Some individuals prefer alcohol-free mouthwashes due to sensitivity.
- The study concluded that the effect of mouthwash on blood pressure is minimal and not clinically relevant.