There appears to be controversy with respect to whether or not
mouthwash containing alcohol may be related to oral cancer. This controversy arises out the studies that
show a link between oral cancer and those that drink alcohol. Michael Douglas is the most recent case in point. He has been reported to be a heavy smoker and
imbibe alcohol on what is rumored to be on frequent occasions. The obvious link in theory is that most
mouthwash formulas contain alcohol, so the conclusion is that a link to
mouthwash must exist here also. The
problem is there are no conclusive studies and at this time there appears to be
insufficient evidence to alter the ADA’s approval of mouthwash containing
alcohol as an effective method for the prevention and reduction of gingivitis
and plaque above the gumline when used as directed. The ADA Council on Scientific Affairs awarded
the ADA Seal of Acceptance to these products after a thorough review of data on
their safety and effectiveness.
Of all the studies published on this topic, beginning in 1979,
four studies reported some positive results while five found no association.
(citations omitted) What we know is that
none of the criteria for causality have been fulfilled by the studies that have
been published so far. The International
Agency for Research on Cancer, an extension of the World Health Organization,
now identifies the consumption of ethanol in alcoholic beverages as a
carcinogenic risk.[1]
Alcohol abuse is associated with cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx and
esophagus. Ibid. However, the reason for this association is
not fully understood – it may be due to a direct effect of alcohol on these
tissue.[2] Because of the conflicting studies and
endorsements I could
advise you to keep using alcohol formulated mouth rinses. But if you are concerned and wish to stay on
the safe side of the debate, there are non-alcohol based mouth rinses available
that appear to be effective in the prevention of gingivitis and plaque.
Our job is to try
and educate you on the contemporary issues we face in addressing your oral
health and if there are any questions you would like to pose, please feel free
to contact us for a
free consultation.
Novy Scheinfeld, DDS, PC
290 Carpenter Drive, 200A
Atlanta (Sandy Springs), GA 30328
404-256-3620
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[1] International
Agency for Research on Cancer. IARC monographs on the evaluation of
carcinogenic risks to humans. Volume 96. Alcoholic beverage consumption and
ethyl carbamate (urethane). Lyon, France: 6-13 February 2007.
[2] Lachenmeier
DW. Safety evaluation of topical applications of ethanol on the skin and inside
the oral cavity. J Occup Med Toxicol 2008;3:26.
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