Report warns that some mouthwashes may cause cancer

An Australian research professor is warning consumers that some mouthwashes with high alcohol levels can cause oral cancer. The report in the Dental Journal of Australia says the ethanol in mouthwash can allow dangerous substances to permeate the lining of the mouth, which can lead to cancer.

"It increases the permeability of the mucosa to other carcinogens like nicotine," explains Professor McCullough. "But also the first breakdown product of alcohol with enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase is acetaldehyde. And acetaldehyde is a known human carcinogen."

The New Zealand Ministry of Health has since cautioned consumers on using mouthwash with high alcohol levels long-term without advice from a dentist.

However, the Dental Association in Australia cautions consumers not to jump to conclusions. Speaking to Newstalk ZB radio in Auckland, New Zealand, Association president Dr Neil Hewson says the report is inconclusive. He says the study is from a single review and is "not definitive."

The Australian Dental Association endorses mouthwashes containing as much as 26 percent alcohol.