Mouthwash and irritation

[Susanne]

I've read mouthwashes containing alcohol can do more harm than good. The brand I've been using most recently contains alcohol and I've noticed since using it that my tongue and mouth feel drier than they should and my gums and insides of my cheeks feel irritated and sore. I've stopped using it as of today. How long would it take for my mouth to feel less dry and the irritation to go away? Is there anything I can do to soothe the discomfort or speed up that process?

 

[Enarete]

Hi Susanne, can't give you a wise answer to this, but was wondering whether salt rinses may help?

 

[MumOfBoys1985]

I'm not a dentist so not really sure. However, I have always been told by my dentist not to use a mouthwash as it washes away the fluoride from the toothpaste.

I would have thought if its causing irritation inside your mouth, maybe stop using it. You could try giving it a break until its healed and try again?

 

[Dr. Daniel]

Hi Susanne,

Any damage caused by the alcohol should be gone within one week. The turnover rate of the superficial layer of the soft tissues (Mucosa) is 5-6 days