Mouthwash linked to mouth cancer

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There's strong enough evidence linking mouthwashes to oral cancer for them to be banned from supermarket shelves, an expert has claimed.

What's the story?

New research has found that mouthwashes containing alcohol can increase the risk of mouth cancer by up to nine times, particularly among smokers or drinkers. The risk is thought to be higher than from drinking beer or wine because they contain a higher concentration of alcohol.

Why?

The Australian scientists who carried out the study on 3,200 people, say the ethanol (alcohol) in some leading brands of mouthwash, like Listerine and Plax, can help things that already cause cancer like nicotine, get into the lining of the mouth.

Alcohol-based mouthwashes also can produce acetaldehyde which has been previously identified to cause cancer in humans.

What are the experts saying?

Researcher, Professor Michael McCullogh, says: 'We see people with oral cancer who have no other risk factors than the use of alcohol-containing mouthwash.'

Dr Philip Stemmer, from London's Fresh Breath Clinic says: 'There's no need for mouthwash to contain alcohol - I recommend patients use an alcohol-free mouthwash instead.'

But Listerine maker Johnson and Johnson deny the claims, reporting that: 'Evidence from at least 10 studies over the last three decades strongly suggests that use of alcohol-containing rinses doesn't increase the risk of oral cancer.'

Which mouthwashes are safe for me?

Most children's mouthwashes are alcohol-free and there's no evidence to suggest these are harmful. Her's our list of alcohol-free mouthwashes which are available at most large supermarkets.

- Reach Junior mouthwash
- Listerine Mint Smart Rinse Mouthwash
- Dentyl Ph Icy-Fresh Mint Mouthwash
- Oral B Alcohol-free mouthwash

The main thing you can do to ensure good oral health is to brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. Read our six steps to improving your dental health for more help.