The oral microbiome, a community of bacteria living in the mouth, plays a crucial role in digestion and maintaining oral health. However, shifts in its composition have been associated with periodontal diseases and certain cancers. New research published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology explores how alcohol-based mouthwash affects the oral microbiome, adding to growing concerns about its long-term effects.
This study, conducted by researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp, Belgium, builds on a larger investigation into the use of mouthwash to reduce sexually transmitted disease (STD) transmission in men who have sex with men (MSM). The researchers found that after three months of daily use, the alcohol-based mouthwash significantly increased the presence of two opportunistic bacteria: Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus. Both species are linked to gum disease as well as esophageal and colorectal cancers. Additionally, the use of mouthwash led to a decrease in Actinobacteria, a group of bacteria known to help regulate blood pressure.
Dr. Jolein Laumen, the study’s first author and a researcher at ITM’s Unit of Sexually Transmitted Infections, warned that while alcohol-based mouthwashes are popular for treating bad breath and preventing gum disease, their long-term use should be carefully monitored. “The public may use them daily to tackle bad breath or prevent periodontitis, but they should be aware of the potential implications. Ideally, long-term usage should be guided by health care professionals,” Dr. Laumen advised.
Professor Chris Kenyon, Head of the Unit of Sexually Transmitted Infections and co-author of the study, noted that up to 50% of MSM report regular use of mouthwash for oral hygiene. “This study adds to the literature that this is likely having an adverse effect on their oral microbiomes,” he said.
While the findings suggest a link between alcohol-based mouthwash and negative changes in the oral microbiome, the researchers urge caution in interpreting the results. The study did not account for other factors such as diet and smoking, and the sample size was small, limiting the generalizability of the findings. The researchers call for further studies with larger, more representative groups to fully understand the clinical impact of these microbiome changes.
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