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Indian Journal of Surgical Oncology

08-05-2024 | Oral Cancer | Review Article

Alcohol-Containing Mouthwash and the Risk of Oral Cancer: Exploring the Association

Published in: Indian Journal of Surgical Oncology

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Abstract

Oral cavity and larynx cancers are generally associated with tobacco consumption, alcohol abuse or both. Mouthwashes are liquid antiseptic solutions that decrease the microbial load in the oral cavity. Alcohol is often used in mouthwashes for its antiseptic functions and as a carrier for some active ingredients, including menthol or thymol, helping them penetrate the plaque. There is some evidence for alcohol-containing mouthwash use which is associated with the potential risk of developing carcinoma of oral cavity. The results are inconclusive, as actual mouthwash use patterns may be inconsistent and cannot be easily quantified. Based on the available data, there is no sufficient evidence to accept the proposition that the use of mouthwashes containing alcohol can influence the development of oral cancer.
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Metadata
Title
Alcohol-Containing Mouthwash and the Risk of Oral Cancer: Exploring the Association
Publication date
08-05-2024
Published in
Indian Journal of Surgical Oncology
Print ISSN: 0975-7651
Electronic ISSN: 0976-6952
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13193-024-01948-4