A recent study conducted by researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium, led by Jolein Lauman, found that alcohol-based mouthwash may impact oral bacterial populations, potentially increasing the risk of certain gum diseases and cancers. The study, published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, revealed significant alterations in the oral microbiome of participants who used alcohol-based Listerine Cool Mint mouthwash daily for three months. Specific bacterial species like Fusobacterium nucleatum and streptococcus anginosus associated with various diseases were found to increase, while beneficial bacteria like Actinobacteria decreased.
The trial, aimed at reducing the incidence of sexually transmitted infections in men who have sex with men, compared the effects of alcohol-based and alcohol-free mouthwash on the oral microbiome. While alcohol-based mouthwash is widely available and can effectively kill bacteria in the mouth, it also eliminates beneficial bacteria, potentially affecting cardiovascular health. Researchers advised caution in using alcohol-based mouthwash, particularly for individuals with dry mouth, a history of alcohol abuse, or extensive dental restorations. Alcohol-free mouthwash may be a more suitable option for those with specific dental needs, medical conditions, or adverse reactions to alcohol-based products.
Chris Kenyon, a professor at the Institute of Tropical Medicine, emphasized the importance of striking a balance between maintaining oral hygiene and preserving beneficial bacteria in the mouth. Lauman suggested that individuals seeking long-term solutions for bad breath or periodontitis should consult healthcare professionals before using alcohol-based mouthwash regularly. While the study highlighted the negative impact of Listerine Cool Mint on certain beneficial bacteria, it also emphasized the need for further research to explore the long-term effects of alcohol-based mouthwash on oral and systemic health.
Dr. Eric Ascher, a family medicine physician at Northwell Lenox Hill Hospital, cautioned against attributing mouthwash use alone to the development of cancer. He noted that factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and overall lifestyle choices could play a significant role in cancer risk. Ascher recommended discussing specific dental needs and concerns with a dentist during regular checkups to determine the most suitable type of mouthwash for individual oral health requirements.
The study had several limitations, including a limited scope of swabs taken from specific areas of the mouth, uncontrolled adherence to mouthwash use, and a restriction to male participants only. Consequently, the results may not be fully representative of the broader population. Despite these limitations, the findings underscored the potential implications of long-term alcohol-based mouthwash use on oral microbiome balance and overall health outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the complex relationship between mouthwash formulations, oral bacteria populations, and systemic health to inform optimal oral hygiene practices for individuals with varying dental needs and medical conditions.
