Here's another fine example of gobbledygook Journalism that assisted in the panic around the Coof incident.
Word-witchery and the usual reversal of the initial implication, an art-form that it seems eight year-olds have
now mastered.
Word-witchery and the usual reversal of the initial implication, an art-form that it seems eight year-olds have
now mastered.
Quote:Emily CraigArchived Telegraph Article:
17 June 2024
The toxic truth about mouthwash
Research suggests that daily use could raise the risk of some cancers, though you may not need to
clear out your cupboards just yet
'More than a third of us use mouthwash, whether that’s just for an extra burst of minty freshness after
brushing our teeth or to tackle bleeding gums. However, rather than bettering the work of your toothbrush,
this habit may actually be putting your health at risk.
For more than a decade, studies have suggested that mouthwash may raise the risk of some cancers.
Now, fresh research has repeated this warning for users of one of the country’s favourite options. But
you may not need to clear out your bathroom cupboards quite yet.
Dangers of mouthwash?
In the latest study from researchers in Belgium, which was originally investigating the impact of daily
mouthwash on STI risk among 59 men, volunteers used Listerine Cool Mint daily for three months,
followed by three months using a placebo mouthwash, or vice versa.
Interestingly, results also showed that the Listerine mouthwash, which rids the mouths of some germs
behind bad breath and plaque, raised levels of two bacteria in the mouth (fusobacterium nucleatum and
streptococcus anginosus) too. Separate research has linked these species to esophageal and colorectal
cancer.
The theory is that the alcohol, antiseptics or flavourings found in mouthwash alter the microbiome and
trigger changes in the growth pattern of the cells, which could influence the likelihood of cancer developing,
explains Prof Karol Sikora, a renowned oncologist and honorary professor of professional practice at the
University of Buckingham.
Additionally, a chemical called acetaldehyde is produced in the mouth after using an alcohol-containing
mouthwash, notes Dr Zoe Brookes, an associate professor of dental education and research at the University
of Plymouth. It’s this chemical that’s thought to be potentially cancer-causing, she adds.
In response to their findings, the study authors urged people against using mouthwash.
It’s not the first time this worrying link has been reported. A 2009 paper from the then-chair of the Australian
Dental Association warned that mouthwashes that contain alcohol raise the risk of oral cancer. It referenced
a 2007 study which found that the fluorescent liquid was linked with a three-fold higher risk of developing
head and neck cancer.
However, none of this research proves that mouthwash causes cancer. And a 2023 review warned that
evidence linking mouthwash and cancer is “limited and conflicting”, as other studies have found no link
between mouthwash use and cancer.
Other studies have only flagged a cancer concern when that bacteria is found in the gut, she notes.
“But just because fusobacterium may cause colon cancer in the gut, it doesn’t mean that bacteria in
the mouth is going to cause oral cancer – it’s too far of a jump,” she says.
However, there are other risks. On top of the cancer concerns, some studies have linked frequent
mouthwash use with diabetes and high blood pressure, says Dr Mia Burleigh, a senior lecturer at the
University of the West of Scotland who researches the microbiome and oral health.
This is thought to be caused by mouthwash reducing the rate at which the mouth converts a compound
found in food called nitrate into nitric oxide because it clears the mouth of certain bacteria. “Healthy
sources of nitrate include vegetables and roots such as dark leafy greens and beetroot,” she explains.
“Without key bacteria in our oral microbiome, nitric oxide production is reduced, impairing glucose
metabolism, insulin sensitivity and cardiovascular control through the regulation of blood vessel dilation.”
What’s in mouthwash?
While ingredient lists vary dramatically between mouthwashes, there are five key components found in
most options on pharmacy and supermarket shelves, says Dr Tom Crawford-Clarke, a dentist and founder
of Luceo Dental in London. Fluoride is one of the most common. It protects the teeth against acids produced
by plaque, which helps prevent tooth decay.
Antibacterial agents are also included reduce the number of microorganisms in our mouths and balance
pH levels, which helps prevent tooth decay and tackles bad breath, he explains. Examples include
cetylpyridinium chloride, which prevents bad breath and plaque from maturing, as well as chlorhexidine
digluconate, found in Corsodyl, which brings down bacteria levels, helping to control the early signs of
gum disease.
Essential oils are also added to freshen breath, provide a “minty feeling” and reduce the build-up of plaque,
while sweeteners are mixed in for taste, Dr Crawford-Clarke notes. Alcohol is the ingredient that provides
the “zing” effect of mouthwash that stings a bit, helps to dissolve oils in the liquid and kills bacteria. It is
frequently found in concentrations of more than 20 per cent, which is around double that found in wine
and four times more than beer. This is one of the reasons why you should never drink it.
The exact blend of ingredients you get will depend on which mouthwash you pick up. The safest ways to
cleanse your mouth and teeth “If you’re worried about the research, just buy an alcohol-free mouthwash,”
says Prof Brookes. “Then you can avoid what some researchers are claiming – that the alcohol content is
raising the risk of cancer.”
Dr Burleigh recommends forgoing mouthwash, unless you have a specific problem to treat. “There is emerging
evidence that mouthwash is detrimental to other areas of health, so it is best avoided unless it has been prescribed
to treat a specific oral health issue,” she says. "Mouthwashes are not the answer to problems – unlike the adverts
would make you believe – and are not a replacement of correct oral hygiene habits, like toothbrushing and
interdental cleaning,” Dr Crawford-Clarke says...'
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