Gargling with Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash: Uses Benefits and Potential Risks
Did you ever consider employing the use of hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash for a healthier smile? This very much in-demand antiseptic is already commonly found in every home, used to sterilize surfaces and dress wounds. Hydrogen peroxide is also employed by some as a mouthwash in hopes that it would soothe sore throats, whiten teeth, and deter gum inflammation.
As an oxidizing agent, it kills bacteria and other unwanted cells by dissolving them. Made of hydrogen and oxygen, it is present in solutions of different strengths, and its 3 percent solution is most frequently used in home care. Although it has many benefits, its proper use should be ensured to prevent any potential risk.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash Benefits
Prevents Bad Breath
Hydrogen peroxide’s antibacterial action destroys bacteria-causing odor to prevent halitosis and fresh breath. Regular use can assist with maintaining continuous oral freshness by maintaining the balance of the bacterial environment.
Remedy for Gingivitis
Its ability to kill bacterial plaque makes it beneficial in the management of gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease resulting from plaque buildup.It also decreases the swelling of gums to prevent further accumulation of disease.
Whitens Teeth
Hydrogen peroxide used in some over-the-counter home whiteners kills upper-layer stains, making your smile dramatically whiter. By its mild bleaching action, its use brings sparkle and can be beneficial without trips to pricey offices for therapy.
Relieves Sore Throat
Its bactericidal killing action fights the infection burning deep within the throat, thinning out thick mucus which is easily coughed up and causes less discomfort. Gargling with hydrogen peroxide also happens to be relieved from pain of the throat brought on by bacterial or viral infection.
Remediates Gum Disease
Hydrogen peroxide gargling possesses the ability to remove periodontal bacteria, loosen deposits of plaque, and access deep gum pockets within the mouth. It promotes overall gum well-being by killing toxic bacteria behind gum recession as well as loss of teeth.
Facilitates Healing of Canker Sores
Hydrogen peroxide is a release of oxygen, which sterilizes trauma and bacteria kills, leading to healing of canker sores and other mucous membrane inflammation. Also helps to guard against secondary infection, allowing oral sores to heal.
Combats Fungal Infection
It prevents oral candidiasis (thrush) from occurring by stopping yeast growth and providing antiseptic relief from invasion by fungi in the mouth. By maintaining the oral cavity in a healthy state, it minimizes the risk of intermittent fungal infection.
Oral Hygiene Support
Hydrogen peroxide is an oxidizing mouthwash of the oral type and is involved in the healing of such conditions as ulcerative gingivitis and infection prevention of minor oral lesions. It is a cheap alternative to industrial mouthwashes with numerous oral wellness advantages.
What happens if you don’t dilute hydrogen peroxide for mouthwash
Hydrogen peroxide should never be diluted before its use as a mouthwash as it will seriously irritate your mouth, producing burning and causing damage to the soft tissues on the tongue and gums. High levels weaken tooth enamel slowly over a while, making teeth vulnerable to cavities. Consumption of hydrogen peroxide is probable to cause upset stomach, vomiting, and ultimately much more detrimental effects on overall health. To avoid injury and convenience, hydrogen peroxide is always to be diluted with water for consumption, for instance, mouth use for teeth and gums.
Side effects of hydrogen peroxide mouthwash
Toxic when ingested
Swallowing hydrogen peroxide is capable of generating severe health conditions such as nausea, vomiting, and esophagus and stomach burning. High-level intake can trigger internal harm and must be dealt with immediately by a physician.
Black Hairy Tongue
Excessive hydrogen peroxide or other oxidizers can lead to transient “black hairy tongue,” a black hairy-tongue condition of the papillae due to overgrowth.
Softer Tooth Enamel
Applying hydrogen peroxide in large amounts or repeatedly can demineralize the enamel of the teeth, causing the teeth to become sensitive and also having an even greater risk of decay and cavities.
Oral Irritation and Sensitivity
Common side effects are stinging, redness, and gum and inner cheek irritation. If they persist, see a dentist or pharmacist as soon as possible.
Controversy Over Daily Use
The daily use of hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash is a controversial issue among dentists globally. Some recommend 1% as an innocuous antimicrobial, whereas others say that hydrogen peroxide is capable of passing through the enamel and collagenous tissues and can damage these in the long run if used daily.
How to Make Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash?
- Mix 1 teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and 2 teaspoons of water in a new cup.
- Shake the solution well to get proper dilution.
- The swish the solution between teeth and gums for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Spit hard and well out do not swallow the solution to induce a stomach ache.
- Rinse your mouth with plain water to get rid of any deposits.
- For a bit of extra zing, a pinch of peppermint oil or baking soda works wonders.
- Only use diluted peroxide, and pure hydrogen peroxide will kill your gum and enamel.
- For burning, reduce frequency or further dilute.
FAQs
- Can I Use Hydrogen Peroxide as Mouthwash?
Yes, but dilute it to prevent irritation. It works on bacteria and eradication of bad breath.
- How to Dilute Hydrogen Peroxide as Mouthwash?
Take an equal volume of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water to prevent gum irritation.
- How to Prepare Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash?
Take 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide and 2 tbsp water. Swish for 30 seconds and spit.
- Is Using Hydrogen Peroxide as Mouthwash Safe?
Safe in periodical use. Continuous use will wear down enamel.
- Top Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash
Colgate and the Heritage Store sell hydrogen peroxide mouthwashes.
Conclusion
Hydrogen peroxide mouthwash usage will enhance oral hygiene through the fight against bad breath and soothing irritated gums. But never swallow and always dilute. Long-term use will lead to tooth enamel breakdown and inflammation. Consult a dentist before using hydrogen peroxide mouthwash in your oral care routine to ascertain that it suits your oral health needs.
