Can Mouthwash Raise Your Blood Pressure

Mouthwash is a staple in many oral hygiene routines, promising fresher breath and a cleaner mouth. But could your daily swish be affecting more than just your breath? Some research suggests that frequent use of antibacterial mouthwash might be linked to higher blood pressure.

Before you panic and toss your bottle in the trash, let’s break down what science says about this potential connection, who may be at risk, and whether certain types of mouthwash are safer than others.

What Does the Research Say?

Several studies have explored whether mouthwash use impacts blood pressure, with mixed results.

• A 2020 study in Blood Pressure found that people who used mouthwash twice a day or more had a higher risk of developing hypertension, even after accounting for other risk factors.

• A 2015 study showed that just three days of antibacterial mouthwash use slightly increased systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) in older adults with hypertension.

• However, a 2019 study in Free Radical Biology and Medicine found no link between mouthwash and blood pressure in vegetarians or meat eaters.

• A 2016 study also found that three days of antiseptic mouthwash use did not affect blood pressure in young, healthy women.

What’s the Connection?

Mouthwash doesn’t just kill bad bacteria it also eliminates good bacteria that help produce nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes and widens blood vessels. Without enough nitric oxide, blood vessels may constrict, leading to a potential increase in blood pressure.

While this theory makes sense, more research is needed to confirm whether mouthwash use is a real risk factor for hypertension.

Who Might Be at Risk?

Although the potential blood pressure spike from mouthwash use is temporary, certain people may be more vulnerable to its effects.

Higher-risk groups include:

• People with a family history of hypertension or heart disease

• Those already diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes

• Older adults, since most studies linking mouthwash to blood pressure involved this age group

• People with chronic kidney disease or high cholesterol

• Individuals consuming high-sodium diets or lacking regular physical activity

If you’re in a high-risk category, it may be worth reconsidering how often you use mouthwash or choosing a formula that won’t disrupt your body’s nitric oxide levels.

Should You Stop Using Mouthwash?

You don’t have to ditch your mouthwash just yet. Experts agree that more research is needed before making any definitive claims about its long-term impact on blood pressure.

That said, if you have existing hypertension or risk factors for heart disease, you may want to limit the use of antiseptic mouthwashes or switch to a gentler alternative.

What Ingredients Should You Avoid?

If you’re concerned about the effects of mouthwash on blood pressure, watch out for bactericidal (bacteria-killing) ingredients, including:

• Chlorhexidine gluconate (a strong antiseptic often used in prescription mouthwashes)

• Alcohol (common in many over-the-counter mouth rinses)

• Hydrogen peroxide (used in whitening mouthwashes)

These ingredients may disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in your mouth and interfere with nitric oxide production.

Can Your Blood Pressure Return to Normal?

If mouthwash has affected your blood pressure, the good news is that the increase appears to be short-lived lasting just a few days to a week after you stop using it.

However, high blood pressure can have multiple causes, including diet, stress, and lifestyle habits. If you’re concerned about your readings, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for a full assessment.

What Are Safer Mouthwash Alternatives?

A clean mouth isn’t just about fresh breath it’s also linked to overall health, including heart health. If mouthwash is part of your daily routine, you don’t have to skip it altogether.

Look for natural, non-bactericidal options with ingredients like:

• Coconut oil (often used in oil pulling)

• Fluoride (to help strengthen enamel)

• Salt water (a gentle, natural rinse)

• Lemon peel oil (a refreshing alternative)

These options can freshen breath without disturbing the delicate balance of your oral microbiome. If you’re unsure which mouthwash is best for you, consult your dentist or healthcare provider.

The Bottom Line

The potential link between mouthwash and high blood pressure is still being researched, and while some studies suggest a connection, others do not. If you’re at risk for hypertension, you may want to limit your use of antibacterial mouthwashes or choose a gentler alternative.

If you found this article helpful, consider subscribing to our newsletter for more expert-backed health insights.