Mouthwash is a common oral hygiene product used to freshen breath, reduce plaque, and support overall gum health. While designed for rinsing and spitting, concerns often arise regarding the potential effects of accidental ingestion. Knowing what happens if mouthwash is swallowed can help individuals react appropriately, especially in households with young children.
Mouthwash Ingredients and Risks
Mouthwashes contain various active and inactive ingredients. When ingested, these components can pose risks depending on their concentration and the quantity swallowed. One common ingredient is alcohol, or ethanol, which acts as a solvent for other active compounds. Ingesting alcohol-based mouthwash can lead to intoxication and may cause central nervous system depression. Some mouthwashes contain alcohol levels ranging from 14% to 26.9%.
Fluoride compounds, such as sodium fluoride or stannous fluoride, are frequently included to help prevent tooth decay and strengthen enamel. Swallowing larger quantities of fluoride can lead to toxicity. Essential oils like menthol, eucalyptol, and thymol provide flavor and contribute to antimicrobial properties, but can cause irritation if consumed in larger quantities.
Hydrogen peroxide is another ingredient found in some mouthwashes, used for its whitening and antibacterial effects. Ingesting hydrogen peroxide can irritate the digestive tract. Cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) is an antiseptic agent that helps reduce bacteria and plaque. While large doses of CPC may cause gastric upset and central nervous system depression, over-the-counter products typically require very large ingestions to cause severe effects.
Understanding Ingestion Effects
Swallowing a small amount of mouthwash, like a residual sip, typically results in minor, temporary symptoms. Individuals might experience a mild upset stomach, nausea, or a brief burning sensation in the mouth or throat. These mild effects usually resolve quickly without intervention.
Ingestion of larger quantities can lead to more pronounced symptoms, particularly due to alcohol and fluoride content. If an alcohol-based mouthwash is swallowed, symptoms can include dizziness, drowsiness, slurred speech, confusion, and impaired coordination. In severe cases, especially for children or individuals with lower body weight, alcohol poisoning can manifest as low blood sugar, slowed breathing, or even loss of consciousness. Fluoride toxicity can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. More severe fluoride poisoning can lead to electrolyte imbalances, tremors, muscle weakness, and cardiac issues.
Ingesting hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation to the digestive tract, leading to nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Larger amounts might even lead to gastric distension or, rarely, gas embolisms. Cetylpyridinium chloride, while generally poorly absorbed, can cause gastric upset in very large doses. Methyl salicylate, another flavoring agent, can result in rapid-onset salicylate poisoning, which may involve brain swelling or seizures in extreme cases.
Responding to Accidental Ingestion
For minor ingestions, such as a small accidental sip, rinsing the mouth thoroughly with water is helpful. Drinking a glass of water or milk can help dilute any remaining chemicals in the stomach and alleviate mild irritation. Monitor for any developing symptoms.
If a larger amount of mouthwash is swallowed, or if the ingestion involves a child, immediate professional medical advice is recommended. Contacting a poison control center is the preferred first step. The national toll-free Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) offers free, confidential assistance 24 hours a day. When speaking with medical professionals, provide specific information: the type of mouthwash ingested, an estimated amount, and the age and weight of the person who swallowed it.
Certain symptoms warrant immediate emergency medical attention, including severe vomiting, difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, slurred speech, seizures, or loss of consciousness. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by poison control or a healthcare provider, as this can sometimes cause further harm. To minimize the risk of accidental ingestion, especially in homes with children, mouthwash should be stored in child-resistant containers, out of reach and sight. Supervising children when they use mouthwash and considering alcohol-free formulations can also help prevent incidents.