Multiple bacteria and microbes live naturally in our bodies. We talk about oral microbiota for the populations that live in our mouth. These promote digestion and help keep the mouth healthy. Nevertheless, alterations in the composition of the oral microbiome would be linked to periodontal diseases as well as cancers.
An association between the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes and certain cancers
In a recent study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, researchers from the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp (Belgium) observed the effects of alcohol-based mouthwashes on the oral microbiome of 59 patients. This work follows broader research into the use of this type of product to reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases among men who have sex with men.
The scientists then observed that two species of bacteria, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus, were present in large quantities in the oral microbiome of the participants after three months of daily use of the same alcohol-based mouthwash (Listerine Cool mint). . These two pathogens have previously been linked to gum disease and esophageal and colorectal cancers.
Another observation from the study: bacteria, called Actinobacteria, were also less present in the volunteers after daily use of this type of mouthwash. However, these microorganisms play a crucial role in the regulation of blood pressure.
Mouthwash: medical monitoring in case of long-term use
To prevent changes in the oral microbiota, the authors recommended being careful with the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes. “The public can use them daily to combat bad breath or prevent periodontitis, but they should be aware of the potential implications. Ideally, long-term use should be guided by healthcare professionals.”underlined Doctor Jolein Laumen, first author of the study and researcher at the Sexually Transmitted Infections Unit of the Institute of Tropical Medicine, in a statement.
Despite the fact that these results show a link between daily use of alcohol-based mouthwashes and alterations to the oral microbiome, researchers nevertheless remain cautious. Indeed, they did not take into account other factors, such as eating habits or smoking, which can also harm the oral microbiota.
