Can mouthwashes containing alcohol cause mouth cancer?

There are no published studies that validate a cause and effect association. Therefore, alcohol-containing mouthrinses meet the criteria for effective antiseptic mouthrinses.

When selecting a mouthwash look for products that carry the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, which have been tested for their safety and effectiveness.

Several commercially available mouthwashes have some alcohol content.  Research suggests that mouthwashes that contain alcohol do not increase the risk of mouth cancer.

However, the risk of  mouth cancer increases significantly for people who smoke and those who both smoke and drink alcohol.

 Mouthwashes can help prevent dental cavities and reduce bad breath. Possible side effects of rinsing with mouthwashes that contain alcohol are a mild stinging or burning sensation and dry mouth.