Dental hygiene - rinses
Oral rinses - which ones really look after your health?
Oral rinses are a daily part of hygiene to protect against tooth decay, freshen breath and promote gum health. Unfortunately, many popular products available in drugstores such as Rossmann or Hebe contain ingredients that can do more harm than good. Let's take a look at what to look out for when choosing a mouthwash so that it actually promotes health rather than putting a strain on your body.
Ingredients to avoid
1. alcohol (Ethanol)
- Often used as an antiseptic and preservative. Although effective in killing bacteria, it can lead to mucosal dryness, irritation and disruption of the natural balance of the oral microflora. Long-term use of alcohol-based rinses can increase the risk of inflammation and hypersensitivity.
2. colours (e.g. CI 42090 - Brilliant blue)
- They give liquids an attractive colour but have no health value. CI 42090, often found in blue rinses, is a synthetic E food colouring that can cause allergic reactions and is suspected of having toxic effects with prolonged exposure.
3. cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC)
- Antibacterial substance, often added to 'antibacterial' liquids. However, it can cause tooth discolouration, taste disorders and mucosal irritation, especially with frequent use.
4. SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate)
- Detergent responsible for the foaming of the liquid. Known to be an irritant to mucous membranes and gums. May aggravate dry mouth and increase the risk of afts.
5. parabens and preservatives (e.g. Methylparaben, Propylparaben)
- Used to extend the shelf life of products, but can be endocrine disruptors and cause allergic reactions.
6 Fluoride (Sodium Fluoride)
- Although fluoride in small amounts protects teeth from decay, excess can be toxic. Fluoride fluids should only be used in people who have indications for additional fluoride supplementation.
Safe and organic alternatives
Fortunately, more and more manufacturers are offering rinses based on natural ingredients, without harmful additives. Here are the substances to look for in the ingredients:
1. xylitol - A natural sugar from the birch tree that has an antitumour effect without disturbing the balance of the oral microflora.
2. plant extracts (e.g. chamomile, sage, aloe vera) - Have anti-inflammatory, soothing and antibacterial effects.
3. tea tree oil - A natural antiseptic that promotes gum health without the risk of irritation.
4. hydrogen peroxide (low concentration) - Gently whitens teeth and has an antibacterial effect without drying out.
5. Hydroxyapatite - A natural component of enamel that strengthens teeth and rebuilds micro-pores without the use of fluoride.
The safest option? Rinsing with coconut oil
If you want to bet on the simplest and safest solution, rinsing with coconut oil (oil pulling) is a practice that has been known for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. Rinse your mouth with a tablespoon of oil every day for 10-15 minutes:
- removes bacteria,
- reduces plaque,
- promotes gum health,
- naturally whitens teeth.
Coconut oil has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties and, most importantly, is completely safe for the body.
Which rinse to choose?
1. Alcohol and dye free - Avoid heavily coloured liquids and those with alcohol in the formulation.
2. Organic certifications - Choose products labelled ECOCERT, Cosmos Organic, Natrue or Vegan.
3. Simple composition - The shorter the list of ingredients, the better. Look for water-based lotions with added plant extracts, xylitol and essential oils.
Summary: Health begins with informed choice
Daily oral hygiene should support health, not burden the body. Rinses available in popular drugstores often contain ingredients that can irritate, disrupt the microflora and cause allergic reactions. For this reason, it is advisable to reach for natural products or to choose tried and tested methods such as rinsing with coconut oil.
At Unident Union®, we always recommend solutions that are safe, effective and in line with the philosophy of whole body health. Because a beautiful smile starts with health - without compromise.
