Why Does Mouthwash Burn and How to Stop It

The burning sensation from mouthwash is usually due to ingredients like alcohol, menthol, eucalyptol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. These can irritate sensitive mouth tissues, especially with dry mouth or sores. Switching to alcohol-free mouthwash, diluting it, or reducing rinse time can help. Addressing dry mouth also reduces sensitivity.

Here’s a deeper look at what causes that burning, and how to deal with it.

Why Does Mouthwash Burn? The Culprits Behind the Sizzle

The burning feeling isn’t random. It’s a reaction between the mouthwash ingredients and your mouth’s tissues. Here’s what’s usually responsible:

Alcohol: The Primary Suspect

Alcohol, often ethanol, is a common ingredient acting as a solvent to dissolve other ingredients and deliver them effectively. It also has antimicrobial properties. However, alcohol is a powerful drying agent. It removes moisture from the lining of your mouth, causing dehydration. This dryness makes tissues more vulnerable to irritation, which we feel as burning.

Alcohol can also disrupt the mouth’s natural balance of bacteria. While it kills harmful bacteria, it can also harm beneficial bacteria that are needed. This can worsen inflammation and sensitivity.

Essential Oils: The Second Tier Irritants

Many mouthwashes contain essential oils like menthol, eucalyptol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. These add antiseptic and flavoring properties for a refreshing taste. However, they are potent and can irritate sensitive tissues.

  • Menthol: Provides a cooling effect, but in high amounts, it can irritate and even cause a burning sensation, especially on damaged tissues.
  • Eucalyptol: Like menthol, it has antiseptic properties and a cooling effect, but can irritate some people.
  • Thymol: An antiseptic from thyme, it’s effective against bacteria but can irritate the oral mucosa.
  • Methyl Salicylate: A derivative of salicylic acid, it has a strong minty flavor and can irritate sensitive tissues, especially in high amounts.

The concentration of these oils greatly affects irritation. Some people are also more sensitive to certain oils.

Other Potential Irritants

Besides alcohol and essential oils, other ingredients can cause burning. These include:

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): A foaming agent in toothpaste and some mouthwashes. SLS can irritate the oral mucosa and may cause canker sores.
  • Acidity (pH Level): Mouthwashes with low pH (acidic) can erode tooth enamel and irritate sensitive tissues.
  • Preservatives: Some preservatives can cause allergic reactions or irritation in some people.

Factors That Increase Sensitivity

Even with a mild mouthwash, certain things can make your mouth more sensitive:

  • Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Reduced saliva makes tissues more vulnerable to alcohol and other ingredients. Saliva protects the tissues.
  • Canker Sores: These painful ulcers make the mouth very sensitive to irritants, including mouthwash.
  • Gingivitis and Periodontitis: Inflamed gums are more easily irritated.
  • Recent Dental Procedures: After fillings, extractions, or cleanings, the mouth is often more sensitive.
  • Allergies: Some people may be allergic to ingredients in mouthwash.

Solutions and Strategies to Reduce the Burn

Here are some solutions to minimize or eliminate the burning:

  1. Switch to an Alcohol-Free Mouthwash: This is the most effective solution. Alcohol-free mouthwashes use alternative antimicrobial agents like cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), which are generally less irritating.

    • Cost Comparison:
      Mouthwash TypeAverage Cost per Bottle (16 oz)
      Alcohol-Based$4 - $7
      Alcohol-Free$6 - $10

    While alcohol-free options might be slightly pricier, the reduced irritation makes them a good investment.

  2. Dilute Your Mouthwash: If you don’t want to switch, dilute your current mouthwash with water. Start with a 50/50 mix and adjust as needed.

  3. Reduce Rinse Time: The longer mouthwash is in contact, the more likely it is to cause irritation. Reduce rinse time from 30-60 seconds to 15-20 seconds.

  4. Choose a Mouthwash with a Neutral pH: Choose mouthwashes with a pH close to 7 (neutral). This minimizes enamel erosion and tissue irritation. Many manufacturers list the pH level on the packaging, or you can research online.

  5. Address Dry Mouth: If you have dry mouth, treat the cause. Drink water, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and use a saliva substitute or dry mouth mouthwash.

  6. Avoid Mouthwash After Dental Procedures: Let your mouth heal after dental work before using mouthwash.

  7. Look for Mouthwashes Formulated for Sensitive Mouths: Some are made for sensitive mouths and contain soothing ingredients.

  8. Consult a Dentist: If burning persists, see your dentist to rule out oral health issues.

My Experience & Quick Fix

I thought the burning was just from “strong” mouthwash. I used a popular brand promising plaque reduction, but the burn was intense! I realized the alcohol was the problem.

Here’s what I did:

  1. Switched to an alcohol-free mouthwash: I found “TheraBreath” at the drugstore. A little pricier, but no more burn!.
  2. Used a saliva-stimulating rinse: Because my mouth felt dry, I added a rinse for dry mouth (Biotene) before the TheraBreath.
  3. Reduced Rinse Time (initially): Even TheraBreath felt a little strong at first. I cut the rinse time to 15 seconds for a week, then increased it. This allowed my mouth to adjust.

This stopped the burning, and my oral health improved. I also had fewer canker sores, which I think were from the alcohol in my old mouthwash.

Conclusion

The burning from mouthwash is common and manageable. By understanding the causes and using the solutions above, you can find a routine that keeps your mouth healthy without discomfort. Listen to your body and adjust as needed. Experimentation can improve your oral hygiene! See your dentist if you have persistent issues for personalized advice.