Alcohol vs. alcohol free mouthwash: What’s the difference?
- - Choosing the right mouthwash: Alcohol-based or alcohol-free
- - The pros and cons of alcohol-based mouthwash
- - Understanding the role of alcohol in mouthwash formulations
- - The downsides of alcohol-based mouthwash
- - Choosing the ideal alcohol-free mouthwash for fresh breath
Table of contents
Brushing twice daily is something most people do. And if it’s up to the dentist, flossing we also floss daily and also add mouthwash to our routine to keep our mouth clean for longer, with the added benefit of breath that is fresh for longer. However, not everyone is a fan of mouthwash, with some even abandoning it because they used to dislike the burning sensation contained in alcohol-based mouthwash. Nowadays, there is also alcohol-free mouthwash on the market, but does it work just as well or even better?
Choosing the right mouthwash: Alcohol-based or alcohol-free
Mouthwash acts as a crucial tool to remove food particles and debris from hard-to-reach areas in your mouth, alongside reducing harmful bacteria. Yet, alcohol, a prevalent ingredient in certain mouthwashes, can be abrasive. Opting for an alcohol-based mouthwash might not be the best choice, as it can disrupt beneficial bacteria and cause dryness in mouth tissues. Fortunately, alcohol-free alternatives, like oil pulling, offer a viable solution, effectively cleansing and refreshing without disturbing the natural balance of your mouth’s flora. 1
The pros and cons of alcohol-based mouthwash
In the past, many dentists recommended alcohol-based mouthwashes. While short-term use might not pose significant harm, the long-term benefits of alcohol-free alternatives appear more promising. Why opt for something that could potentially cause more harm than good when better alternatives exist?
€16
Recommended price: €20
For extra fresh breath- Anti-bacteria
- For healthy teeth
For extra fresh breath
Understanding the role of alcohol in mouthwash formulations
Manufacturers often include alcohol in mouthwash for cost-effectiveness, but the actual impact may not align with effective oral care. Alcohol might aid in distributing certain ingredients for a refreshing sensation, but it may not contribute substantially to combating harmful bacteria. Moreover, it tends to dry out the mouth, leading to discomfort.
The downsides of alcohol-based mouthwash
Alcohol’s drying effect reduces saliva production, potentially causing bad breath and promoting rapid bacterial growth, including candida infections. Additionally, alcohol negatively impacts the mouth’s mucous membranes, leading to discomfort and potential long-term damage.
Choosing the ideal alcohol-free mouthwash for fresh breath
The perfect mouthwash choice varies for each individual. Fortunately, an array of 0% alcohol mouthwashes is available. Opt for a mouthwash infused with active oxygen, aloe vera, and zinc lactate for effective bacterial control without alcohol’s drawbacks. Alternatively, consider trying oil pulling or using dental floss, such as Fleeck, a reliable brand known for its comprehensive flossing experience and dental care benefits.
€16
Recommended price: €20
- For extra fresh breath
- Anti-bacteria
- For healthy teeth
€45
Recommended price: €100
- Wireless design
- Up to 99.9% less plaque
- 240 ml water tank
€85
Recommended price: €214
- Advanced technology for superior cleaning
- Effective against bad breath
- Improve your oral health
Related Trusted Sources
1. Peng TR, Cheng HY, Wu TW, Ng BK. Effectiveness of Oil Pulling for Improving Oral Health: A Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel). 2022 Oct 11;10(10):1991. doi: 10.3390/healthcare10101991. PMID: 36292438; PMCID: PMC9602184.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9602184/
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Written by
Kim Schouten
In recent years, she has worked in various areas to improve oral health care for both young and old. Oral care is an essential part of daily care. This is because good oral care is not only important for the mouth, but also for overall health. Therefore, it is very important to create awareness and share knowledge about this.
Frequently asked questions
Which non-alcohol mouthwash is best?
Which alcohol-free mouthwash is best depends partly on your preferences and needs. Whether you rinse with an alcohol-free mouthwash, or do oil pulling, it irritates your mouth less than mouthwash with alcohol.
Why does mouthwash contain alcohol?
Alcohol is an excellent cleaning agent and relatively cheap. So it is ideal for mouthwashes! It is also used to include eucalyptus in mouthwash, two ingredients that feel fresh but actually work in favour of bacteria that cause bad breath.
Complete your routine
Refill fluoride free charcoal
Refill mint with fluoride
Toothpaste tablets fluoride free mint
Refill heads sonic toothbrush
Electric tooth cleaner
Oil pulling
Tongue scraper
Wireless Water Flosser
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