If You Have Gum Disease, Mouthwash With Alcohol Can Make It Worse

Most people who use mouthwash are unaware of the risks of using alcohol-based mouthwash when you have gum disease. In fact, many may opt to use mouthwash that includes alcohol on purpose, thinking that the alcohol will help kill germs and thus combat the bacteria that frequently cause gum disease issues.

Unfortunately, it does not work that way, at least not when it comes to mouthwash with alcohol in it. Using mouthwash is a good idea, and it can definitely be an invaluable part of your regular oral hygiene routine. However, if you have gum disease, you may want to think twice before reaching for the mouthwash with alcohol in it.

Alcohol in Your Mouthwash Can Make the Gum Disease Worse

When you swish the mouthwash around your mouth, the alcohol can actually dry your mouth out. This is a problem because one way your mouth fights off bacteria is by constantly rinsing itself out with saliva. Even though the mouthwash might leave a minty taste in your mouth, the reality is that using it will eventually lead to worse problems and a higher level of bacteria in your mouth. In the long run, this can cause more bad breath and more issues with gum disease.

The Good News: You Can Still Use Mouthwash

Knowing this, you might think that you have to stop using mouthwash altogether. However, this is not the case. There are many different types of mouthwash available, and the selection of alcohol-free mouthwashes includes many that will do the job you need them to.

So instead of giving up on using mouthwash, just be sure that the one you choose does not have alcohol in it. Then, incorporate the mouthwash into your regular oral hygiene routine. This, along with regular brushing and flossing, can help fight off the bacteria that cause gum disease.