We’ve all experienced that unforgettable sting when rinsing with mouthwash. Whether you’re a regular user or only use it on special occasions, the burning sensation after swishing a mouth rinse can be off-putting and uncomfortable. But why does it happen? What is the science behind this common phenomenon?
In this blog post, we’ll explore what causes the burning feeling of mouthwash and provide tips for reducing its intensity. Read on to learn more about how your favorite personal hygiene product affects your teeth and gums!
What Causes Mouthwash to Burn?
Mouthwash is a widely used oral hygiene product that is used to freshen breath, eliminate germs, and encourage good dental health. Some individuals, however, may experience a burning feeling when using mouthwash, which can be unpleasant and painful. In this piece, we’ll look at the physics behind mouthwash burn, the ingredients that can cause it, possible health risks, and how to choose and use mouthwash to alleviate the pain produced by mouthwash burns.
Mouthwash Ingredients That Cause Burning
Mouthwash contains a wide range of ingredients, some of which may produce a burning feeling in the tongue. Here are some common mouthwash components that can produce a burning feeling, along with a description of how they work:
- Alcohol – As an antiseptic, alcohol, usually ethanol, is added to mouthwash to eliminate germs and freshen breath. It denatures proteins in bacteria, causing cell walls to rupture and eventually destroying them. Alcohol, on the other hand, has the ability to dissolve lipids and oils, including the protective coating of oils on our epidermis and inside our mouths. The delicate tissues in our mouths become dry and irritated, resulting in a burning feeling.
- Menthol – Menthol is a natural chemical substance found in plants like peppermint and eucalyptus. It is put to mouthwash to give it a refreshing, cold feeling. Menthol, on the other hand, can be irritating to some individuals and produce a burning feeling.
- Eucalyptol – Eucalyptol is a naturally occurring substance present in eucalyptus oil. It is used in mouthwash to provide a minty, revitalizing flavor while also killing germs. Eucalyptol, on the other hand, can produce a burning feeling in the mouth.
- Thymol – Thymol is a naturally occurring substance present in thyme oil. It is put to mouthwash to provide antiseptic qualities as well as to freshen the odor. Thymol, on the other hand, can be irritating to the tongue and may produce a burning feeling.
- Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) – CPC is a quaternary ammonium substance used as an antimicrobial in mouthwash. It eliminates germs and freshens the air, but it can also give some people a burning feeling.
- Hydrogen peroxide – A gentle antiseptic that is used in some mouthwashes to eliminate germs and whiten teeth. It can, however, be irritating to the tongue and produce a burning feeling.
- Salicylic acid – Salicylic acid is a form of beta hydroxy acid that is added to some mouthwashes to aid in the removal of plaque and tartar. While it can be efficient at removing buildup, it can also be irritating and cause a burning feeling in the tongue.
- Phosphoric acid – Phosphoric acid is a form of acid that is added to some mouthwashes to aid in the removal of plaque and tartar. It can, however, be irritating to the tongue and produce a burning feeling, similar to salicylic acid.
Common Question: Why Do Listerine Burn?
The burning sensation you feel when using Listerine mouthwash is caused by how its components interact with the tissue in your mouth. These components are designed to eliminate harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. When they come into contact with your oral tissues, they break down the protective layer of proteins and fats (lipids) on the surface. This disruption can trigger a sensation that your brain interprets as burning or stinging.
It’s also worth noting that this sensation is a subjective experience and can vary from person to person. Some people might experience a strong burning sensation, while others may feel only a slight tingle.
Why Does Alcohol-free Mouthwash Still Cause Burning?
For those who prefer to avoid booze, alcohol-free mouthwash is available, but it can still produce a burning sensation in some individuals. This is due to the fact that alcohol-free mouthwash may contain other chemicals that can cause oral irritation or sensitivity, such as menthol or eucalyptol. Furthermore, some individuals may be sensitive to certain mouthwash components, which can cause a burning or stinging feeling.
Risks: Dental Issues that Might Caused by Mouthwash
While mouthwash burn is usually harmless and resolves on its own, frequent or extended use of burning mouthwash may pose more severe health risks. The dryness and irritation produced by alcohol in mouthwash, for example, can raise the risk of getting dental infections, periodontal disease, and cavities. Furthermore, some study indicates that using alcohol-containing mouthwash frequently may raise the risk of oral cancer, though more research is required to confirm this link.
Some dental issues may caused by low quality mouthwash:
- Dry tongue: Alcohol in some mouthwashes can dry out the tongue and decrease saliva output. This can result in poor odor as well as an increased chance of dental decay and gum disease.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Acidic mouthwashes can erode tooth enamel, resulting in greater teeth sensitivity and discomfort.
- Stained Teeth: Some mouthwashes can darken teeth, especially if they contain chlorhexidine or other discoloring compounds.
- Masking Symptoms: Using mouthwash to cover up bad odor or other dental problems can prevent the root issue from being handled. If you have chronic oral problems, you should see a dentist.
How to Choose Non-Burning Mouthwash
If you frequently experience mouthwash burn or find it uncomfortable, consider using a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol or other irritating chemicals. Look for mouthwash that is branded “alcohol-free” or “gentle” to avoid chemicals that may irritate. You can also search for mouthwash with soothing components like aloe vera or chamomile to help alleviate the burning feeling.
Alternatives to Alcohol-Based Mouthwash
There are several alcohol-free mouthwash options that you can use to freshen your breath, eliminate germs, and improve your dental health. Here are some possibilities:
- Seawater rinse: A seawater rinse is an easy and efficient method to clean and eliminate bacteria in your mouth. In a tumbler of tepid water, dissolve 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of salt and swish it around your lips for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Hydrogen peroxide rinse: A hydrogen peroxide rinse can help eliminate germs while also whitening your teeth. Swish equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water around your lips for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
- Baking soda rinse: Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener that can also be used to combat bad odor. 1 teaspoon baking soda in a tumbler of water, swish around your lips for 30 seconds, then spit out.
- Herbal mouthwash: Herbal mouthwashes are available that contain natural components such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and aloe vera. These components can aid in the killing of germs and the freshening of your breath.
- Oil pulling: Oil pulling is an old Ayurvedic technique in which you swish oil around your lips to eliminate toxins and germs. Oil extraction can be done with olive oil, sesame oil, or sunflower oil.
How to Ease the Pain of Mouthwash Burns
If you do get mouthwash burn, there are a few things you can do to alleviate the pain and suffering. To begin, dilute the mouthwash with water to lessen its strength. Swish with water or milk to flush away any remaining mouthwash and relieve the burning feeling. Additionally, avoid consuming or imbibing acidic or spicy foods right after using mouthwash because they can aggravate the tongue even more.
More Questions
1. Does Listerine mouthwash burn?
When you use Listerine mouthwash, you may experience a burning or tingling feeling in your tongue. This sensation is frequently characterized as refreshing or chilling, but some people may find it unpleasant or overpowering.
Listerine contains ingredients that have a cooling impact on the tissues in your tongue, such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptol, which produce the burning feeling. These components can also irritate delicate tissues, such as the gums, resulting in a burning feeling.
If the burning feeling is too intense or unpleasant, try a gentler mouthwash or dilute the Listerine with water before using it. It is also critical to follow the label directions and not use Listerine for longer than suggested or more frequently than instructed. Consult your doctor or healthcare practitioner if the burning feeling continues or is followed by other symptoms such as swelling or discomfort.
2. Is it safe to swallow mouthwash?
No, swallowing mouthwash is not secure. Most mouthwashes contain active chemicals like alcohol or fluoride, which can be hazardous if consumed in excessive amounts. In severe instances, swallowing mouthwash can cause nausea, vomiting, and even alcohol poisoning.
Children are especially susceptible to the negative effects of swallowing mouthwash, so parents should always monitor their children when using mouthwash to ensure they do not consume it.
If you swallow a tiny quantity of mouthwash by mistake, you may experience mild symptoms such as a burning feeling in your throat or stomach. If you have consumed a bigger quantity of mouthwash, or if you experience any serious symptoms, such as vertigo, confusion, or trouble breathing, you should seek medical assistance right away.
To minimize the possibility of unintentionally swallowing mouthwash, use only the suggested quantity, spit it out after use, and monitor children when using mouthwash. If you have any questions about using mouthwash, talk to your doctor or healthcare practitioner.
3. Can mouthwash whiten teeth?
Some mouthwashes contain chemicals that can help eliminate surface stains and provide a transient whitening impact on teeth. Typically, these mouthwashes contain a tiny quantity of hydrogen peroxide or other whitening chemicals.
However, mouthwash is not a replacement for expert teeth whitening procedures, which can provide more dramatic and long-lasting effects. Furthermore, the whitening impact of mouthwash may not be visible for everyone, and the outcomes may differ based on the person and the severity of the staining.
It is suggested that you follow a regular oral health regimen that includes cleaning twice a day, flossing daily, and using whitening toothpaste or a professional whitening procedure prescribed by your doctor to achieve the best results in whitening teeth.
Final Thoughts
Mouthwash burn can be unpleasant and excruciating, but it is usually harmless and resolves on its own. Understanding the chemicals in mouthwash that can cause scorching and selecting a mouthwash without these ingredients can help reduce the risk of mouthwash burn.
If you do get mouthwash rash, diluting the mouthwash, washing with water or milk, and avoiding acidic or spicy meals can help. As with any other dental care product, use mouthwash as instructed and consult your dentist if you experience prolonged pain or irritation.
