Mouthwash Advantages and Disadvantages - Essay Example

Mouthwash Advantages and Disadvantages Do the advantages of using mouthwash far outweigh the disadvantages? Introduction Humans have always placed emphasis on their oral hygiene. Oral hygiene affects the way humans look, their perception of others and their general sense of grooming. There are many ways oral cleanliness has been practised; from brushing teeth with twigs and brushes, swirling the mouth with saline water to the use of antiseptic solutions. Mouthwash is one of the strategies of ensuring oral hygiene. It is known by names such as mouthwash, oral rinse, mouth rinse or oral bath. Mouth wash in itself is a liquid solution put in the mouth, gargled or swirled. In most cases, mouthwash is never meant to be swallowed. It can, therefore, be held passively in the mouth and after it has cleansed the mouth can then be spat out. The mouth is known to harbour microbial organisms which result in fouling breath after digesting food particles. Microbial activity is known for causing oral complications such as tooth decay, gingivitis and bad odour. Therefore, man has continually developed mouthwash with capabilities to go beyond basic cleansing of the oral cavity. Mouthwashes are made to provide anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, as well as fluoride properties, to ensure dental and oral health. These capabilities have led to the increased popularity and widespread use of mouthwashes. For example, oral medical procedures such as tooth extraction necessitate the need to use mouthwash as a form of disinfectant. Consequently, manufacturers are producing a wider range of mouthwash to cater for the growing market segment and demand. However, mouthwash brands have also generated widespread concerns regarding health implications on the users. Many medical and media sources have attempted to find the link between, oral ailments such as cancers and accidental poisoning and mouthwashes. Common ingredients of mouthwashes include fluoride, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, iodine, and mint, fresheners and edible oils. The paper explores the advantages and disadvantages of mouthwashes, and the various types of mouthwashes. History of the use of Mouthwash The Chinese are some of the earliest documented users of mouthwash that dates back to as far as 2700 BC. The Chinese are known to have used mouth rinse to treat oral conditions such as gingivitis. Ancient Egyptians also valued hygiene and apart from cleansing their bodies, also used a wide range of locally available products to enhance oral hygiene. For instance, paintings from ancient Egyptian artworks indicate they emphasized whole body cleanliness. Egyptians are documented to have used sodium carbonate to cleanse their mouths. They also made use of cumin, water and honey solutions, frankincense and goose fat to keep their mouths fresh (CPS Magazine, n.d.). Ancient Romans were also reported to have made regular purchases of Portuguese as a remedy of bad breath around AD 1. Romans often engaged the services of slaves to conduct oral cleansing on their master. The ammonia found in urine is cited as a key component that made urine a good solution to bad breath. Urine was, therefore, used to disinfect and whiten teeth. As a result, urine became an important ingredient of mouth washes for many centuries thereafter. In AD 23, tortoise blood became a popular form of mouthwash that was credited for its ability to protect people against tooth aches (Warnakularusiya & Tilakaratna, 2014). Around 40-90 AD, documents by the Greek Physician and surgeon, Pedanius Dioscorides, indicate that he recommended an oral regime made up of olive leaves and juice. He also promoted the use of milk. Dioscorides also recommended; myrrh, gum, pomegranate, wine and vinegar to counter bad oral odour. By the 12th Century A.D Saint Hildegard von Bingen, German mystic and philosopher had begun recommending cleaning the mouth using clean, cold water. He believed that swishing cold water in the mouth prevented the development of plaques and tarter (Parwani, et.al, 2013). However, the Europeans were not the only society practising mouth cleansing in the ancient times. Native Americans and Mesoamericans are known to have been using mouthwashes before the coming of Columbus and other migrants. People of the Aztec Civilization used plants such as Coptis trifolia among others to make mouthwashes. Native Americans also used saline solutions to remedy mouth sores, teething problems and sore throats. Dentistry practised by the Aztecs peoples is believed to have been way ahead of Europe in the ancient days (Warnakularusiya & Tilakaratna, 2014). Starting from the 17th Century, research was conducted to find out exactly what caused oral problems and the best way to tackle them. For instance, Anton van Leeuwenhoek a microscopic scientist discovered that dental plaques had deposits of living organisms. Leeuwenhoek also discovered that the addition of brandy or vinegar to solutions with microorganisms immobilized them. He, thus, devised a form of mouthwash comprised of vinegar and brandy, but noticed one setback: the microorganisms remained in the plaque. He decided that either the mouthwash was not strong enough to reach the plaques or did not last long enough to eradicate them (Burket, 2008). Later improvements on his mouthwash were made in 1960 by Danish professor, Harald Loe. He used chlorhexidine that was a more effective mouthwash. It was able to remain on the oral surface long enough to counter effects of microbes and slow down plaques. However, mouthwashes have taken a commercial outlook with various lines being made from alcohol among other solutions. In recent times, mouthwashes made with alcohol as an ingredient have come under scrutiny owing to their link with oral cancers (McCullough & Farrah, 2008). Studies have been conducted to verify these claims, but the results are often inconclusive and disputed. For instance, 2008 publication by the Australian Journal of dentistry pointed to a possible connection between oral cancers and alcohol-based mouthwashes. However, just like other surveys, the results were largely inconclusive. These health concerns had nevertheless been raised in other countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. The consumer’s response to health and concerns arising from the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes is important. It arises out of the observation that most mouthwashes belonging to this line contain as much as 27% alcohol. Consequently, manufacturers and marketers of mouthwashes have shifted their production to herbal or alcohol-free mouthwashes (Lachenmeier, 2010). Main Uses of Mouthwashes Mouthwashes are mainly known for providing oral protection against foul breath and cavities. Mouthwashes are frequently used to enhance confidence that is key for human interaction in social encounters. Manufacturers of mouthwashes cite many more health and social benefits accruing from the use of their products (Walsh, 2008). However, some of the benefits listed by manufacturers on their product packaging must be subjected to the scrutiny and opinion of dentists to ascertain their authenticity. Here are some of the most common uses of mouthwashes: Rinsing of the oral cavity: Cleansing the oral cavity is necessary after a dental operation such as tooth extraction has taken place. Mouthwashes are commonly used to get rid of blood or chemical residue that might linger in the mouth after the procedure. Moreover, cleansing the mouth also removes residue that can be used by harmful bacteria to cause infections or launch a microbial colony in the mouth. Due to their liquid solution form, mouthwashes make good rinses after such medical procedures (Burket, 2008). Moreover, the antiseptic properties of mouthwashes reduce the possibility of mouth sores developing infections after medical procedures have been undertaken. Providing a fresh Breath: Humans are a social being who have always been sensitive to social concerns such as bad breath. Most people use mouthwash as a social tool to enhance their sociability and minimize issues such as social stigma arising from foul breath. Mouthwashes also enhance an individual’s self-esteem and confidence in social interactions (Elkins, 2013). Reduction of Tooth Cavity Incidences: Medical research has found that mouthwashes with fluoride play a fundamental role in reducing the advancement of tooth cavities. Studies indicate that using mouthwash with fluoride slows down demineralization of teeth and the progression of cavities (Werner & Seymour, 2009). Helps in Tackling Gum Disease: Many diseases of the gum such as the periodontal disease can be slowed down by use of mouthwash. These diseases are often caused by microbes such as bacteria that cause inflammation of the gums, plaques and tooth sockets. Consequently, mouthwashes with anti-microbial properties can effectively prevent or reduce such diseases. For instance, chlorhexidine or alcohol-based mouthwashes can hinder the advance of periodontal complications (Goldstein & Kiremidjian-Schumacher, 1993). Providing Prenatal Protection: Recent studies have found out that microbes commonly associated with periodontal disease are capable of entering the mother’s bloodstream and interfering with pregnancies. These bacteria are responsible for causing the birthing of underweight babies. In some severe cases, the bacteria can cause premature contractions that can result in the birth of premature babies. Further research has also showed that pregnant women who consistently used mouthwash were less likely to experience preterm births than those who didn’t (Nairn, et.al, 2014). This, among other studies points out the benefits of mouthwash. Sanitizing and Soothing Mouth Sores: Mouthwashes provide a sanitizing effect to the mouth, particularly when oral sores are present. For instance, canker wounds are some of the oral complications whose management can be effected using mouthwash. Saline and hydrogen peroxide solutions which are also a form of mouth rinses, just like mouthwashes, radically reduce the multiplication of bacteria hence generating a soothing effect on the sores (Consolaro, 2013). It is, however, important to note that mouthwashes cannot function alone. There is still need for proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing of teeth to be carried out in combination with mouthwashes. In many cases, mouthwash can serve to mask foul breath. Nevertheless, a form of abrasion such as brushing is needed to physically clear food particles, germs, and bacterial colonies from the mouth or teeth (Weitzman, et.al, 1986). Different Types of Mouthwash Mouthwashes can be categorized based on among other things, their composition, role and the main ingredients used in their manufacture. For instance, some of the major components used in the manufacture of mouthwash include herds, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and chlorhexidine among others. In the broad category, commercially made mouthwashes are often classified as alcohol-based mouthwash or alcohol-free mouthwash. Herbal Mouthwashes: Herbal mouthwashes and rinses constitute some of the earliest forms of mouthwashes applied in different parts of the world. For instance, in parts of Africa, Asia and the Americas, mouthwash derived from herbs is still used. Egyptians used olive leaves, milk and other ingredients to make mouthwashes. Southern Nigerians still use sticks that are chewed together with herbal compounds such as saponin, tannin and alkaloids among other compounds. Guava is often used as a mouthwash in Brazil and Peru. Other people use pomegranate and leaves from the neem tree (Azadirachta Indica) as a mouthwash especially in the Indian Subcontinent. Using such herbal strategies, the chewers of sticks and herbal mouthwash in many parts of the world tend to have stronger teeth and better oral health (Parwani, et.al, 2013). Some manufacturers have also been packaging their products as herbal derivatives in an attempt to attract more clients. Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Mouthwash: Human societies value good appearance and the perceived quality of teeth plays a role in the communication process. Consequently, white teeth are considered an indication of good grooming and a sign of oral health. People take all measures to make their teeth white using bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide (Weitzman, et.al, 1986). Hydrogen peroxide is used as a mouth cleaning agent and an antiseptic. It not only clears microbes in the oral cavity but has the potential of bleaching teeth the same way chlorine does. Hydrogen peroxide is capable of killing anaerobic bacteria by producing extra oxygen in a chemical reaction following its characteristic frothing (Consolaro, 2013). However, hydrogen peroxide is often combined with other chemical compounds such as carbamide peroxide and urea peroxide. Mouthwashes based on hydrogen peroxide need to be used with caution as there have been concerns on its toxicity and carcinogenic properties. Nevertheless, Hydrogen peroxide can also be used to treat ulcerative gingivitis (Goldstein & Kiremidjian-Schumacher, 1993). Chlorhexidine Digluconate: Chlorhexidine Digluconate compounds form one of the most common components used in the preparations of mouthwashes. A 0.12-0.2% chlorhexidine digluconate composition is frequently used as a mouthwash to counter plaque and oral fungal infections. Though chlorhexidine Digluconate can be used to administer treatment for periodontal tooth disease, it cannot singularly solve dental hygiene issues (Parwani, et.al, 2013). Therefore, chlorhexidine Digluconate is often recommended for use alongside other cleaning strategies such as brushing of teeth and flossing. Dentists find chlorhexidine digluconate a good type of mouthwash just before carrying out tooth extraction. It is very instrumental in blocking the occurrence of a dry socket; a condition where exposed bone leads to loss of blood from the socket previously occupied by the extracted tooth (Nairn, et.al, 2014). In some cases, people with compromised immune systems suffer from oral candidiasis and chlorhexidine Digluconate becomes useful in their treatment. The efficacy of chlorhexidine digluconate in the elimination of microbial and bacterial elements in the mouth stems from the adhering properties of the chlorhexidine on surfaces of the mouth and teeth that makes it last long enough to eradicate the germs. However, this adhering quality means it can cause staining of the dental cavity. Edible Oil-Based Mouthwashes: Ancient communities such as the Ayurvedic medical practitioners used oil mouthwashes to attend to oral health complications. They practised procedures such as oil pulling, swishing or Gandusha. In many instances, oils such as sesame, sunflower and coconut oil are swirled in the mouth then spat out (Marchetti, et.al, 2011). The duration for a teaspoonful the mouthwashes’ stay in the oral cavity is 10-20 minutes at a time. More recently, oral health product manufacturers have repackaged the oral medical approach. The oil-based mouthwash is touted to have capabilities of extracting toxins from the mouth as well as other parts of the body. However, the systemic abilities of oil-based mouthwashes remain untested. Only minor comparative tests have been carried out to assess the efficacy of edible oil oral therapy against other more commonly used strategies such as mouthwashes based on alcohol. In one survey, chlorhexidine mouthwashes were found to be more effective in the elimination of bacteria and other disease-causing microbes from the oral cavity. In some advanced tests, oil mouthwashes are also infused with alcohol as a means of increasing the capability to counter the growth of plaques after initial treatment by oil mouthwashes had been carried out (Marchetti, et.al, 2011). Flouride Mouthwash: Flouride is one of the minerals needed in ensuring dental health. In fact, dental decay often occurs when there is erosion of fluoride from the teeth of affected people. In many cases, dentists recommend the use of fluoride mouthwash for people most likely to be affected by tooth decay. It is because fluoride has long been known to provide protection to teeth against decay (Goldstein & Kiremidjian-Schumacher, 1993). Alcohol-Based Mouthwash: Alcohol is often used in the manufacture of mouthwashes for its antiseptic properties as well as a drying agent. Ethanol that is a form of alcohol is a major ingredient in the composition of many mouthwashes. Sometimes the alcohol content used might be as high as 26-27%. Alcohol-based mouthwash can be recommended by dentists as part of a medical regime to treat dental plaques. Ethanol is also favoured as a constituent of mouthwashes due to its relative affordability, efficacy as an antiseptic as well as its ability to act as a preservative (Bajaaj & Tandon, 2011). Alcohol is also good in the formulation of mouthwashes due to its ability to adequately dissolve other ingredients in the compounds. One of the active ingredients of alcohol-based mouthwash is acetaldehyde. However, emerging evidence has shown that several bacteria found in oral plaque can cause the ethanol to metabolize into acetaldehyde that can in turn contribute to the development of oral cancers. However, alcohol is among the alternatives to tackling gingivitis and bacterial plaque without using mechanical or abrasive methods (Cianco, 2009). How do Mouthwashes Work? Mouthwashes are mainly in liquid or solution form. They are known for creating a feeling of freshness on the oral cavity soon after use. Most mouthwashes also have the characteristic fresh breath and fragrance but are never meant to be ingested. It should also be noted that mouthwashes are not substitutes for brushing or flossing. However, mouthwashes are an integral part of oral hygiene measures due to their ability to reach parts of the mouth not accessed by regular toothbrushes and flossing materials. Mouthwashes do not all work, in the same way, since they contain different ingredients and compounds. However, most are made of substances soluble in water, some of which are dissolved powders. Depending on the contents of the mouthwash, their mode of action will tend to differ (Nairn, et.al, 2014). For instance, some mouthwashes contain regular non-poisonous detergents. These detergents work by displacing food particles and microbial colonies from teeth and mouth cavities. Detergents in the mouthwashes can also serve to rid the mouth of loose plaque hence reduce the bacterium concentration in the oral cavity (Werner & Seymour, 2009). Since mouthwashes play an important role in improving the scent of breath, fragrances are often a component. Moreover, flavours are also added to make the mouthwash friendly to the oral cavity of the users (Goldstein & Kiremidjian-Schumacher, 1993). Other mouthwashes work by eliminating microbial agents responsible for causing tooth decay and other conditions affecting oral health. One of the most common antimicrobial agents used in mouthwashes is alcohol. The form of alcohol in regular mouthwash application is ethanol that can also be used in increasing the efficiency of other mouthwashes originally not based on alcohol (Cianco, 2009). Mouthwashes are ready to use solutions that also need preservatives to keep the solution from degeneration while in storage. Water is also an important component of mouthwashes which helps the ingredients to dissolve and extend their reach to parts of the oral and dental cavity that regular brushing and flossing cannot access. However, there have been health concerns arising out of the use of alcohol and hydrogen peroxide in mouthwashes. The two substances have been linked to the increased risk of developing cancers of the oral cavity due to prolonged exposure. Consequently, the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes and those with hydrogen peroxide have been restricted to prescription and regulation by dentists (Keller & Terris,1965). Differences between Alcohol-Based and Non-Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes Efficacy in Oral Microbial Control: Most diseases affecting the human oral cavity are caused by bacterial and other microbial activities. One of the documented causes of bad odour is a consequence of microbes acting on food particles in the oral cavity. Consequently, most mouthwashes are designed to combat the activities of the oral cavity microbes by killing or inhibiting their multiplication (Lachenmeier, 2010). Alcohol-based mouthwashes have been found to be more effective in controlling colonies of microbes responsible for causing plaques. For example, in comparison to oil-based mouthwashes, alcohol-based mouthwashes (primarily with ethanol) showed better ability to inhibit the growth of plaques after the initial treatment. In one test, oil mouthwash with alcohol posted a plaque growth index of 2.18 against 2.46 attained by the mouthwash without any alcohol component (Bajaaj & Tandon, 2011). Interaction with the Oral Cavity: There is a marked effect that alcohol-based mouthwashes have in the mouth of users upon contact. The characteristic burning effect distinguishes alcohol-based mouthwashes from those that do not contain alcohol. This effect acts as a distinguishing element between these two lines of mouthwashes as well as an indication of ethanol’s anti-microbial activity. However, the burning sensation often lasts a few seconds before it subsides. In the case of alcohol-free mouthwashes, the burning effect is almost non-existent (Mao & Murray, 2006). Cultural and Religious Reception and Perceptions: Not all cultures and religions approve of having alcoholic ingredients in the products they consume including mouthwashes. Even though the alcohol content in mouthwashes is capable of causing a positive result in a breathalyser test ten minutes after use, it does not cause drunkenness (Lachenmeier, 2010). However, alcohol-free mouthwash will have a greater cultural preference especially in conservative society’s more than alcohol-based mouthwashes. Interaction of the Mouthwash Components and the Oral Cavity: Alcohol, particularly ethanol is mostly used to increase the solubility of components that make up the mouthwash which might include detergents, oils or other elements such as calcium. The solubility of mouthwashes often enhances their ability to permeate most parts of the oral cavity and hinder microbial activity. However, alcohol-free mouthwashes sometimes fail to reach all areas of the oral cavity that makes manufacturers include ethanol to infuse these properties. Therefore, alcohol-based mouthwashes are more soluble and more effective in comparison to alcohol-free mouthwashes (Mao & Murray, 2006). Advantages of Using Mouthwashes Some mouthwash types can help pinpoint areas with plaque: Advances in the manufacture of mouthwashes have resulted in the development of specific ones designed to indicate areas with plaque. Consequently, one can concentrate on brushing and flossing areas with will have a colour change indicating they have plaque. Cavities can be managed better with mouthwash: Since fluoride plays an important role in preventing tooth decay, using mouthwash with fluoride can be instrumental in the management of tooth decay. Moreover, mouthwashes being liquid in form can penetrate remote parts of the oral cavity likely to be infested with tooth decay-causing bacteria. Mouthwash Improves the Efficacy of Brushing: When used correctly, mouthwash can enhance the efficiency of brushing in giving the oral cavity a thorough cleanup. For instance, rinsing the mouth with mouthwash before brushing serves to dislodge food particles that bacteria feeds on. On brushing, the food residue will readily come off and after brushing, more mouthwash can be used to rinse off the oral cavity (Shapiro, Castellana, & Sprafka, 1996). Mouthwash Provides Oral Antiseptic Benefits: Though brushing works to mechanically clear food particles and bacterial residue, mouthwashes often contain anti-bacterial properties. The mouthwash can then kill the bacteria some of which are causative agents for oral conditions such as tooth decay, gingivitis and bad breath. Mouthwashes Provide Longer lasting Oral Protection at Night: Night time presents long hours of bacterial activity after eating during which microbes can act on food particles. It is for this reason that most mornings are characterized by foul breath. However, when used just before going to sleep, mouthwashes are capable of providing protection to the oral cavity during the time or minimal activity. Disadvantages of Mouthwashes Dangers of Oral Cancer Development: Some mouthwashes, particularly alcohol-based mouthwashes have been linked to higher incidents of oral cancers. According to a survey by Maserejian et al., the risk of developing oral cancer is directly proportional to exposure to causative agents such as alcohol. In a sample population of 50,000 male American professionals, alcohol exposure was significantly found to increase the risk of developing cancerous oral lesions compared to those not exposed to any form of alcohol (Ahrens, 2014). Another study by Bernstein et al., found that, the use of alcohol in mouthwashes as a caustic agent increases mucosal ulcers formation and epithelial detachment. Since cancer development takes time, prolonged exposure to alcohol-based mouthwash led to DNA breakdown and denatured cells that became malignant. A 2001 study of 342 pharyngeal cancer patients also found an elevated risk of cancer development among patients who used mouthwashes compared to those who did not. Alcohol was, therefore, cited as a possible carcinogenic component even when used in mouthwashes (McCullough & Farrah, 2008). Though some studies have been done to counter assertions on the risk of getting cancer, a growing number of doctors still advise against continuous use of alcohol-based mouthwashes (Gandini, et.al, 2012). Increased Risk of Poisoning: Most mouthwashes are not meant to be ingested. However, it is very difficult to monitor use of mouthwashes by groups such as children who might ingest it. There have been cases of children being rushed to the emergency room due to an alcoholic mouthwash ingestion. In the United States children poisoned by mouthwashes who need medical attention number at least 4,000 annually (Keller & Terris,1965). Abuse of Mouthwashes: Reports have indicated that people confined in correctional facilities like prisons and rehabilitation centres are very likely to engage in abusing mouthwashes especially alcohol-based ones. On the other hand, recovering alcoholics will also be more tempted to ingest alcohol-based mouthwashes to reduce withdrawal symptoms (Lachenmeier, 2010). The result might be a case of poisoning. Mouthwash Cannot Substitute Brushing: Even though cleaning of teeth is enhanced by the ability of mouthwash to reach areas the brushing cannot access, mouthwashes also have limitations. For instance, the onset of plaques can be countered through mechanical removal by brushing (Elkins, 2013). Mouthwash Only Improves Bad Breath on Short Term Basis: The fragrances and flavours present in mouthwashes make them a suitable alternative to toothpastes. However, singular use of mouthwashes does not dislodge the food particles which microbes feed on resulting in bad breath. The result is that soon after the effect of mouthwashes wears out; bacteria colonies begin regrouping and digesting the food particles resulting in yet another onset of bad breath (Elkins, 2013). Mouthwash can negate the benefits of Brushing: Like toothpastes, mouthwashes are made from different combinations of chemicals. Their interaction might be largely unknown but according to some physicians, using mouthwash soon after brushing teeth can cancel out the benefits of brushing due to the chemical reactions. Therefore, people are advised to use mouthwash at least a half an hour after brushing their teeth (Lachenmeier, 2010). Some Mouthwash Types May Increase Bacterial Activity: Some studies have indicated that mouthwashes based on alcohol might promote the growth of bacteria in the oral cavity (Lachenmeier, 2010). The drying effect of alcohol in the mouth may promote the growth of bacteria that are the causative agents for bad breath. Mouthwash can in some cases make foul breath worse: Some users of mouthwashes incorrectly believe that it is the ultimate solution for bad breath. However, mouthwashes sometimes only provide temporary solutions for the foul breath. In this regard, underlying causes of bad breath are often such as bacterial activity and gas can be ignored. Delayed medical intervention can increase the severity of oral conditions due to overreliance on mouthwash. It is difficult to point out whether merits of mouthwash use outweigh the demerits. The benefits and disadvantages can be pegged on the composition of the mouthwash and the proven benefits and dangers of the ingredients to the user. For instance, dangers of alcohol-based mouthwashes were first documented in 1979. Consequently, more than 20 other studies have been carried out with inconclusive results. However, mouthwashes and rinses continue to play an important role in the social and medical realm (Gandini, et.al, 2012). When used in combination with brushing and flossing, mouthwashes present the best results in not only chemically eliminating most of the microbes responsible for oral problems, but mechanically removal of oral residue. Therefore, correct use of mouthwashes becomes the defining element towards realization of its benefits. On the other hand, incorrect application of mouthwashes is likely to result in the adverse effects of mouthwashes such as claims that it may cause oral cancers (Squier, Cox, & Hall, 1986). It is also true to note that one of the biggest negative concerns on the use of mouthwashes emanates from the risk of developing oral cancers. Conclusion Mouthwashes have a long history of use in the civilization of mankind long before modern toothbrushes became standard oral cleaning devices. Mankind has always valued oral health not only for its cosmetic benefits of whiter teeth, but also for the role healthy-looking teeth play in face-to-face communication. Since humans are social beings, they have sought better ways of enhancing oral health to make interactions as comfortable as possible. Consequently, many parts of the world have come up with their types of mouthwashes based on the locally available materials such as herbs and chemical substances. Mankind has been able to identify the causative agents of foul breath and adverse oral conditions such as tooth decay, gingivitis and oral sores. Moreover, research in oral health has led to the development of more efficient mouthwashes. In spite of these improvements, there have been concerns on the safety and efficacy of mouthwashes since they are made from chemicals with varying degrees of side effects. For instance, alcohol-based mouthwashes have been cited as having cancer-causing properties. Nevertheless, conflicting research findings counter or negate the claims. Most dentists still recommend that mouthwashes cannot be singularly used but must instead be applied in combination with standard toothbrushes to guarantee better oral care. Nevertheless, human interest in bettering oral health continues to grow. Newer products and research will yield more information on the safety and efficacy of procedures such as mouthwash application and other oral care measures. As is evident, the advantages of mouthwashes do not outweigh the disadvantages. As per this paper, there are more disadvantages than there are advantages. It is an indication of the likelihood of a mouthwash causing more harm than good. A show of the potency of mouthwashes to be harmful to the user rather than be of the intended use to the user. References Ahrens, W. E., 2014. Oral Health, Dental Care and Mouthwash Associated with Upper Aerodigestive Tract Cancer Risk in Europe: The ARCAGE Study. 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