Research published in an Australian journal last year found that use of alcohol-containing mouthwashes increases the risk of oral cancer among smokers by nine times and among alcohol drinkers by five times. Use of mouthwash with alcohol among non-drinkers also poses an increased risk of just under five times. Concerns with this dental health issue had arisen earlier in the year, according to a December 2009 article published in a popular newspaper The Australian, http://bit.ly/ccwpZJ
According to the research, “Long-term use of ethanol-containing mouthwashes should be discouraged, given recent evidence of a possible link with oral cancer.” Leading brands may contain as much as 26% alcohol, and may have other unwanted effects such as gingivitis, a stage of gum disease, or detachment of cells that line the mouth. Mouthwash brands without alcohol may often be purchased at health food stores or directly at your local dental office.
