Bactericidal mouthwashes are killing the 'healthy' microbes inside our mouths along with the dangerous ones, a dentist has warned. These microbes make chemicals that are important for the heart and immune system.
Dr. Kami Haus, a dentist from San Diego, California, and a member of the Board of Counselors of the School of Dentistry have warned that the mouthwash used by millions of Americans every day may be effective in killing microbes. But along with harmful bacteria, mouthwash also kills the microbes that make nitric acid.
This chemical is produced when food is broken down and has been linked to improved blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Mouthwashes have been heavily criticized in past small studies, which have shown that they increase the risk of high blood pressure and cancer in humans.
But the results of these studies have yet to be validated by larger studies. There is currently a consensus in the medical field that they are safe and effective in improving bad breath and removing plaque.
The American Dental Association says that these mouthwashes should be used in conjunction with brushing and flossing, not to be used more than twice a day, and by people over the age of six.
Hoss wrote in his book that mouthwashes kill all but the toughest bacteria. The remaining bacteria then make the mouth their home regardless of the microbes that harbor them.
Among the bacteria killed by mouthwash is a bacteria that makes nitric acid, which they say is linked to improved blood pressure. A 2013 study found that when people used mouthwash, their blood pressure increased because those specific bacteria were also killed by the mouthwash.