When you use mouthwash, you may feel a tingling sensation or a burning feeling on your tongue. For some people, this sensation is refreshing and cooling while others find it unpleasant or even painful. In this article, we will explore the question of why does mouthwash burn, and whether it is normal.
A common misconception is that if your mouthwash burns, it must be doing something good for your oral health. The truth is that it depends on what the mouthwash contains and your personal tolerance to that ingredient. It is important to talk with your dentist and hygienist about your mouthwash choices and whether or not they are helping your mouth.
Most over-the-counter mouthwashes are designed to help with bad breath, plaque, gingivitis, and cavities. There are also rinses that can be used to whiten teeth, or to treat gum disease. These mouthwashes are usually labeled as antiseptic, anti-plaque, anti-gingivitis, or anti-cavity depending on their focus. Some of these rinses require a prescription to be used such as chlorhexidine mouthwash for periodontitis, cetylpyridinium chloride (a mouthwash that kills bacteria that causes bad breath), or a fluoride mouthwash for tooth decay.
Most mouthwashes contain alcohol to sanitize the mouth and to dissolve other ingredients like menthol or essential oils to freshen the breath. Alcohol can burn the mouth if it comes into contact with cuts or sores in the mouth and can be very uncomfortable for some people. It is recommended to dilute the mouthwash with water before using it to reduce its strength and to avoid any burning sensations.