Femlex,

There are several issues to be concerned about when using mouthwash on a daily basis.

One: chemicals used to make mouthwash like Listerine are undeniably known to be carcinogenic. When these mouthwashes are used on a daily basis, diluted or not, they have the potential to contribute to oral cancer. They also dry out the natural secretions of the mouth contributing to xerostomia (dry mouth) and reduced salivary flow contributing to tooth decay and gum disease. Also, whatever mouthwash or toothpaste is used in the mouth is also absorbed by the oral tissue of the cheeks, palate, tongue and throat.

Two: The mouth contains over 500 different species of bacteria. The chemicals in the mouthwash cannot differentiate the good from the bad bacteria. So they kill everything. The usage eventually leaves the person with no healthy bacteria to naturally fight off offending germs.

Given the negative effects and toxicity of these products, there really is never a good reason or a good time to use these chemical laden mouthwashes. Most people are capable of brushing their teeth and even who have dexterity problems can usually use an electric tooth brush pretty well. Bathing the teeth, gums, tongue, and oral tissue in toxic chemicals does not make them clean or healthy. It destroys the beneficial bacteria to the point of no return.

People who are bedridden and in a vegetative state should be having their teeth brushed by their caretaker. Even if the brushing is not totally effective, it is better than doing nothing at all. With all the various tooth cleaning gadgets on the market, there truly is a small exception to the rule of being able to brush your teeth or having someone brush them for you.

Bryanna