Rubbing alcohol is a common household antiseptic meant only for external use. Rinsing your mouth with it is highly dangerous. Swishing this substance, even without swallowing, carries a high risk of severe chemical irritation and systemic poisoning. Rubbing alcohol is not equivalent to the ethyl alcohol (ethanol) found in commercial mouthwashes; it is a highly toxic substance unsafe for human consumption in any amount. Even small accidental ingestions can lead to medical emergencies.
Chemical Composition and Oral Tissue Damage
Rubbing alcohol is most frequently a solution of isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), typically found in concentrations of 70% by volume. Isopropyl alcohol is a strong solvent highly irritating to the delicate mucosal tissues lining the mouth and throat. Unlike the less toxic ethanol used in mouthwashes, isopropanol rapidly dehydrates and denatures proteins within the oral and pharyngeal lining.
This chemical action results in immediate and intense localized damage, including a severe burning sensation and inflammation of the gums, tongue, and cheeks. Exposure can lead to chemical burns, tissue necrosis, and possible damage to the taste buds, causing a temporary or prolonged loss of taste perception. The delicate balance of the oral microbiome is also severely disrupted. This localized trauma makes even a brief rinse a painful and damaging experience that offers no benefit over approved oral care products.
Hazards of Ingestion and Systemic Effects
The danger of rinsing with rubbing alcohol is the high likelihood of accidental ingestion, leading to rapid and severe systemic poisoning. Isopropyl alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream quickly, with blood levels peaking within 30 minutes to three hours after ingestion. Even a small amount is toxic, as the body metabolizes isopropanol into acetone, a central nervous system depressant and gastrointestinal irritant.
Once absorbed, the substance depresses the central nervous system (CNS) with an effect that is two to three times more potent than beverage alcohol. This CNS depression can manifest as confusion, slurred speech, and dizziness, and ultimately lead to coma and respiratory depression. Acetone, the metabolic byproduct, can prolong these sedative effects and is responsible for symptoms such as vomiting, severe abdominal pain, and hemorrhagic gastritis (bleeding and inflammation of the stomach lining). Ingesting a large volume, such as 200 to 250 milliliters of 70% isopropyl alcohol, can be fatal, although toxic effects begin at much lower doses. If accidental ingestion occurs, call poison control immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
Appropriate Methods for Oral Disinfection
For routine oral hygiene, brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day is recommended. These practices mechanically remove plaque and food debris, the main causes of oral disease. Commercial mouthwashes approved by a dental association offer a safe alternative for disinfection. These products use tested antimicrobial agents in safe concentrations, such as cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils, rather than toxic alcohols.
A simple and effective home remedy is a warm saline rinse, made by dissolving a half teaspoon of salt in warm water. This solution helps soothe inflamed tissues, promotes healing, and acts as a gentle disinfectant. If a person suspects a serious oral infection, such as a dental abscess, they must consult a dentist or physician immediately. Strong prescription-only disinfectants, like chlorhexidine, are available from a professional but should only be used under their guidance.