Cytogenetic damage induced by mouthrinses formulations in vivo and in vitro

The effects of the use of whitening mouthwash after home bleaching on the color stability and surface hardness of enamel

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the effectiveness of whitening mouthwashes, both with and without hydrogen peroxide (HP), after at-home teeth whitening in preserving the achieved whiteness and assessing their impact on enamel surface hardness.

METHODS

One hundred extracted human premolar teeth were divided into two groups, and home bleaching agents (Philips Zoom NiteWhite 22% Carbamide Peroxide, Ultradent Opalescence PF 16% Carbamide Peroxide) were applied to the groups. The teeth subjected to home bleaching were further divided into five subgroups, and each subgroup underwent a four-week cycle of application of a coloring agent and whitening mouthwash (Colgate Optic White (COW)(%2 HP), Rocs Black Edition (Rocs) (%1 HP), SPLAT Professional Bioactive gargle white Plus (SPLAT) (Ananas sativus fruit extract containing), Listerine Advanced White (Listerine) (Pyrophsphate containing), and distilled water (DW) (control)). Color and microhardness measurements were recorded at baseline, after home bleaching, and after treatment with whitening mouthwashes.

RESULTS

Compared with those treated with Opalescence PF, the samples treated with Zoom achieved a significantly greater degree of whitening (p < 0.001). When the effects of postwhitening mouthwash were evaluated (ΔE002), Listerine presented the lowest ΔE002 value in both home bleaching groups, whereas the control group presented the highest ΔE002 value. Both home-bleaching agents caused a significant increase in the initial WID values (p < 0.05). After home-bleaching, the increased WID values (WID2) significantly decreased in all mouthwash groups following exposure to the staining and whitening mouthwash cycle (WID3) (p < 0.05). The impact of home bleaching agents on microhardness was not significantly different (p = 0.151). When we examined the impact of whitening mouthwashes on microhardness, in the Zoom group, no statistically significant difference was observed in surface hardness (p > 0.05). However, in the Opalescence PF group, only the Listerine group showed a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher concentrations of carbamide peroxide provide faster and more effective whitening. Whitening mouthwash containing HP and pyrophosphate is effective in maintaining tooth whiteness after home bleaching; however, its impact on enamel microhardness depends on the formulation. Notably, only Listerine in the Opalescence PF group significantly increased surface hardness. Given the drawbacks of HP, pyrophosphate-based mouthwash may serve as a safer alternative.

Does Mouthwash Use Affect Oral Cancer Risk? A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Studies indicate a strong correlation between the length and degree of alcohol and tobacco use and the risk of oral cancer (OC). However, there has been debate concerning the usage of mouthwashes and associated higher risk of OC for many years. The purpose of this study was to gain insight into how using mouthwash influenced the risk of OC. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol was used when searching the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Observational studies that addressed the relationship between mouthwash use and OC and involved adult or older adult populations were included. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was employed to check the methodological quality, and random effects meta-analysis, along with other subgroup analyses and meta-regression, were utilized to synthesize quantitative data. Out of 5,132 papers identified, 15 case-control studies comprising 6,515 cases and 17,037 controls were included in the review. Seventeen effect measures from these 15 studies were included in the meta-analysis. For individuals who used mouthwash three or more times a day, the pooled OR for OC was 1.00 (95% CI: 0.79-1.26; n = 17 studies). Among those who had used mouthwash for more than 40 years, the OR was 1.30 (95% CI: 1.58-4.82; p = 0.05; n = 2 studies). Some studies suggest that frequent mouthwash use may increase the risk of OC. Given the biological plausibility of this link, we exercise caution in interpreting these findings. It is important to note the limited research on the frequency and duration of mouthwash use. Thus, for the strengthening of the evidence for a possible dose-response effect of mouthwashes on OC risk, we suggest that future research should be focused on the frequency, duration, and substance of mouthwashes in depth.

Development of whitening mouth rinses formulated with mushroom residues and their effect on enamel's physical properties

Objectives

This study aimed to develop whitening mouth rinses formulated with industrial mushrooms and compare them with over-the-counter whitening mouth rinses.

Materials and Methods

Formulations with black shimeji mushrooms, mushroom substrates, and mushroom stalks were developed. Bovine enamel/dentin samples were divided into 7 groups (n = 10): Colgate Luminous White, Listerine Whitening Extreme (LWE), Listerine Cool Mint (LC), mushroom extract rinse (MEC), mushroom substrate rinse (MSB), mushroom stalk rinse (MTC), and artificial saliva. Samples were stained with black tea for 6 days, and then were immersed in 100 mL of each mouth rinse twice daily for 14 days. Color parameters (CIELAB [ΔE*], CIEDE2000 [ΔE00], whiteness index for dentistry [ΔWID]) and microhardness (Knoop hardness number [KHN]) were analyzed at T1 (initial), T2 (24 hours), and T3 (7 days). Mouth rinse pH was measured, and enamel was examined using a scanning electron microscope. Data were analyzed using generalized linear models, and KHN with the generalized linear mixed model for repeated measures (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

ΔE* was higher in LW and MSB groups. No significant differences were found for ΔE00 (p = 0.0982) and ΔWID (p = 0.2536). Experimental mouth rinses did not promote enamel whitening based on ΔE00 and ΔWID. LWE and LC reduced KHN and had a more acidic pH, while MEC had higher KHN at T2. MEC, MSB, and MTC had alkaline pH, not altering the tooth surface.

Conclusions

Black shimeji mushrooms are promising for mouth rinse development due to their alkaline pH and non-altering effect on surface microhardness.

Microbiological and Clinical Effects of a Proanthocyanidin-enriched Extract from Rumex acetosa in Periodontally Healthy Carriers of Porphyromonas gingivalis: a Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Rumex acetosa significantly inhibits the adhesion of Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. g.) to eukaryotic host cells in vitro. The objective of this randomized placebo-controlled pilot-trial was to analyze effects of a mouth rinse containing 0.8% (w/w) of a quantified proanthocyanidin-enriched extract from Rumex acetosa (RA1) on microbiological, clinical, and cytological parameters in systemically healthy individuals without history of periodontitis, harboring P. g. intraorally. 35 subjects received a supragingival debridement (SD) followed by mouth rinsing (3 times daily) with either RA1 mouth rinse solution (test) or placebo (control) for 7 days as adjunct to routine oral hygiene. Supragingival biofilm samples were taken at screening visit, baseline (BL), 2, 4, 7 and 14 days after SD. P. g. and 11 other oral microorganisms were detected and quantified by rtPCR. Changes in the oral microbiota composition of one test and one control subject were assessed via high throughput 16S rRNS gene amplicon sequencing. Approximal Plaque Index (API) and the modified Sulcular Bleeding Index (SBI) were assessed at BL, 7- and 14-days following SD. Brush biopsies were taken at BL and 14 d following SD. Intergroup comparisons revealed no significant microbiological, cytological, and clinical differences at any timepoint. However, a significant reduction in SBI at day 14 (p = 0.003) and API at day 7 (p = 0.02) and day 14 (p = 0.009) was found in the test group by intragroup comparison. No severe adverse events were observed. The results indicate that RA1 mouth rinse is safe but does not seem to inhibit colonization of P. g. or improve periodontal health following SD.

Meta-Analysis of the Efficacy and Safety of Chlorhexidine for Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Prevention in Mechanically Ventilated Patients

Objective

To explore the efficacy and safety of chlorhexidine oral care in the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) by means of meta-analysis.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials on the effect of chlorhexidine oral care on the incidence of VAP in patients on mechanical ventilation were searched in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Embase from May 1, 2022. Two researchers independently screened and included the study, extracted the data, and evaluated the literature quality. RevMan5.3 software was used for meta-analysis.

Results

Meta-analysis of 13 included literature studies involving 1533 patients showed that oral care with chlorhexidine solution could reduce the incidence of VAP in patients with mechanical ventilation and the difference was statistically significant (RR = 0.61, 95% CI (0.46, 0.82), P=0.04). However, the results showed that the incidence of VAP of low concentration (0.02%, 0.12%, and 0.2%) and high concentration (2%) of chlorhexidine in the intervention group was lower than that in the control group and the difference was statistically significant (RR = 0.70, 95% CI (0.51, 0.96), P=0.03; RR = 0.41, 95% CI (0.27, 0.62)). There was no significant difference in mortality between the two groups (RR = 1.01, 95% CI (0.85, 1.21), P=0.87). There was no statistical significance in days ventilated or days in ICU between the two groups (RR = -0.02, 95% CI (-0.19, 0.16), P=0.84; RR = 0.01, 95% CI (-0.11, 0.14), P=0.85).

Conclusion

Existing evidence shows that chlorhexidine used for oral care of patients with mechanical ventilation can reduce the incidence of VAP, and high concentration of chlorhexidine (2%) or low concentration of chlorhexidine (0.02%, 0.12%, 0.2%) has a significant effect on the prevention of VAP. Considering the safety of clinical application, it is recommended to use 0.02%, 0.12%, and 0.2% chlorhexidine solution for oral care.

Efficacy of non-hydrogen peroxide mouthrinses on tooth whitening: An in vitro study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the tooth whitening efficacy of non-hydrogen peroxide containing mouthrinses.

METHODS

Forty incisors were randomly assigned into four groups. Four whitening mouthrinses, Oral-B 3D White Luxe/Procter & Gamble (WL), Listerine Advanced White/Johnson & Johnson (AW), Colgate Max White/Colgate (MW), and iWhite Whitening Mouthwash/Sylphar (iW), were used over a four-week period. Color changes of L*, a*, b*, ΔE*_ab , and ΔE₀₀ , were recorded by a digital spectrophotometer (Spectroshade Micro/Mht), at baseline and intermediate week-intervals. Data were statistically analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA at α = 0.05.

RESULTS

The first-week mean change of L* was 0.76 and significantly different from the baseline for all solutions, without any further changes. Correspondingly, a* decreased by -0.36, while b* increased by 0.48, contributing to a color change of 1.15 ΔE*_ab or 0.91 ΔE₀₀ . No differences were found among the solutions in respect to color-parameter changes (p > 0.05). Differences among time intervals were significant (p < 0.05) and mainly observed between the baseline and the following week-measurements. There was no statistically significant time-solution interaction (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Non-hydrogen peroxide whitening mouthrinses, slightly contribute to tooth whitening, by removing superficial staining, without any further tooth bleaching effect.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Non-hydrogen peroxide containing whitening mouthrinses, despite having a quick initial action, reach their ceiling relatively soon. Their effectiveness is barely perceptible and definitely inferior to other professional tooth bleaching methods. Thus, they can only be considered as a supplementary way of keeping teeth whiter, mainly by preventing recurrent tooth discoloration.

Cranberry extract-based formulations for preventing bacterial biofilms

Generating formulations for the delivery of a mixture of natural compounds extracted from natural sources is a challenge because of unknown active and inactive ingredients and possible interactions between them. As one example, natural cranberry extracts have been proposed for the prevention of biofilm formation on dental pellicle or teeth. However, such extracts may contain phenolic acids, flavonol glycosides along with other constituents like coumaroyl iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, alpha-linolenic acid, n-6 (or n-3) fatty acids, and crude fiber. Due to the presence of a variety of compounds, determining which molecules (and how many molecules) are essential for preventing biofilm growth is nontrivial to ascertain. Therefore, a formulation that could contain natural, unrefined, cranberry extract (with all its constituent compounds) at high loading would be ideal. Accordingly, we have generated several candidate formulations including poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA)-based microencapsulation of cranberry extract (CE15) as well as formulations including stearic acid along with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or Ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE) complexed with cranberry extracts (CE15). We found that stearic acid in combination with PVP or LAE as excipients led to higher loading of the active and inactive compounds in CE15 as compared with a PLGA microencapsulation and also sustained release of CE15 in a tunable manner. Using this method, we have been able to generate two successful formulations (one preventative based, one treatment based) that effectively inhibit biofilm growth when incubated with saliva. In addition to cranberry extract, this technique could also be a promising candidate for other natural extracts to form controlled release systems.Graphical abstract.

Genomic Instability in Exfoliated Buccal Cells among Cement Warehouse Workers

BACKGROUND

Workers in cement warehouses of Kerala are enduring long-standing exposure to cement dust, which is considered genotoxic.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the extent of genotoxicity and cytotoxicity caused due to exposure of cement dust among those working in cement warehouses.

METHODS

The study included 82 cement warehouse workers and 82 age-matched individuals with no exposure to cement dust. Exfoliated buccal micronucleus cytome assay (BMCyt) was performed to analyze the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects caused by inhalation of cement dust.

RESULTS

The frequency of various genotoxic and cytotoxic end markers (micronucleated cells [2-fold increase, p<0.001], nuclear buds [4-fold increase, p<0.001], binucleated cells [4-fold increase, p<0.001], karyorrhectic cells [2-fold increase, p<0.001], pyknotic cells [3-fold increase, p<0.001], and karyolytic cells [2-fold increase, p<0.001]) were higher in the exposed workers compared with unexposed group. Increase of these parameters represented an increased level of chromosomal damage, nuclear disintegration and increased cell death among exposed group compared with unexposed group.

CONCLUSION

Continuous exposure to cement dust results in increased frequency of nuclear aberrations and cellular apoptosis. This may lead to defects in genome maintenance, accelerated ageing, increased chance of oral cancer and neurodegenerative disorders in those occupationally exposed to cement dust.

Genotoxicity of non-alcoholic mouth rinses: A micronucleus and nuclear abnormalities study with fluorescent microscopy

AIM

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the genotoxicity of non-alcoholic mouth rinses on buccal epithelial cells using a micronucleus test.

METHODS

A total of 105 patients were selected and randomly divided into five groups. Four different mouth rinses and normal saline were given for 2 weeks' duration, and cytological smears were collected before and after exposure. These smears were subjected to micronucleus (MN) and other nuclear abnormalities (ONA) tests using acridine orange stain, and their frequencies were obtained in 500 buccal epithelial cells. The statistical analysis included mean, χ² -test, analysis of variance, and post-hoc analysis by Bonferroni test.

RESULTS

Micronucleated cells (P < .00) and MN (P < .00) were higher in individuals exposed to chlorhexidine (CHX), followed by chlorine dioxide (ClO₂ ), potassium nitrate (KNO₃ ), and sodium fluoride (NaF), amine fluoride (AmF), and normal saline. ONA were greater (P < .00) in individuals exposed to CHX, followed by ClO₂ , AmF, KNO₃ , and NaF and normal saline. Overall, the results showed that genotoxic damage was greater in the case of CHX, followed by ClO₂ , KNO₃ , and NaF, AmF, and normal saline.

CONCLUSION

Chronic exposure to mouth rinses can cause genotoxic damage to buccal epithelial cells. Long-term injudicious and inadvertent use of mouth rinses should be discouraged.

Evaluating the potential genotoxicity of phthalates esters (PAEs) in perfumes using in vitro assays

We previously reported high levels of phthalate esters (PAEs) added as solvents or fixatives in 47 brands of perfumes. Diethyl phthalate was the most abundant compound (0.232-23,649 ppm), and 83.3% of the perfumes had levels >1 ppm, the threshold limit cited by a Greenpeace investigation. All samples had dimethyl phthalate levels higher than its threshold limit of 0.1 ppm, and 88, 38, and 7% of the perfumes had benzyl butyl phthalate, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, and dibutyl phthalate levels, respectively, above their threshold limits. The role of PAEs as endocrine disruptors has been well documented, but their effect on genotoxic behavior has received little attention. We used in vitro single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet) and micronucleus (MN) assays with human lymphoblastoid TK6 cells to evaluate the genotoxic potency of 42 of the same perfumes and to determine its association with PAEs. All perfumes induced more DNA damage than a negative control (NEG), ≥ 90% of the samples caused more damage than cells treated with the vehicles possibly used in perfume's preparations such as methanol (ME) and ethanol (ET), and 11.6% of the perfumes caused more DNA damage than a positive control (hydrogen peroxide). Chromosome breakage expressed as MN frequency was higher in cells treated with 71.4, 64.3, 57.1, and 4.8% of the perfumes than in NEG, cells treated with ME or ET, and another positive control (x-rays), respectively. The genotoxic responses in the comet and MN assays were not correlated. The comet assay indicated that the damage in TK6 cells treated with five PAEs at concentrations of 0.05 and 0.2 ppm either individually or as a mixture did not differ significantly from the damage in cells treated with the perfumes. Unlike the comet assay, the sensitivity of the MN assay to PAEs was weak at both low and high concentrations, and MN frequencies were generally low. This study demonstrates for the first time the possible contribution of PAEs in perfumes to DNA damage and suggests that their use as solvents or fixatives should be regulated. Other ingredients with mutagenic/genotoxic properties, however, may also have contributed to the DNA damage. Future studies should focus on applying a series of assays that use different cellular models with various endpoints to identify the spectrum of genotoxic mechanisms involved.

Could formaldehyde induce mutagenic and cytotoxic effects in buccal epithelial cells during anatomy classes?

Background

Due to increased formaldehyde exposure, carcinogenic to humans, several researches have been studying the potential toxicity and the safe levels for human beings. The aim of this study was to investigate mutagenicity and cytotoxicity in buccal epithelial exfoliated cells (BEC) of students subjected to formaldehyde (FA) during anatomy classes.

Material and Methods

BEC were collected periodically from 17 volunteers of undergraduate programs, who had participated in practical anatomy classes, before and after FA exposure. Cells were stained according to Feulgen method and then micronucleus test was applied. A total of 1,500 cells were assessed per individual in this study for the micronucleus frequency and other parameters of cytotoxicity.

Results

There was statistically significant increase in number of micronucleated BEC after FA exposure (after 1 month p=.034 and after 3.5 months p=.017). However, FA exposure caused no significant increase in other nuclear alterations closely related to cytotoxicity (p≥.05).

Conclusions

FA induced mutagenicity during anatomy classes. Cell death increased, but it was not statistically significant. Efforts have to be made to improve air quality and reduce exposures during anatomy classes.

Key words:Carcinogens, formaldehyde, micronucleus tests, mutagenicity tests.

Genotoxic assessment of chlorhexidine mouthwash on exfoliated buccal epithelial cells in chronic gingivitis patients

Background:

Chlorhexidine (CHX) is the gold standard of all chemical plaque control agents and the most commonly prescribed mouthwash. However, several studies have shown cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of CHX on various eukaryotic cells. In this study, we have used micronuclei as a biomarker of DNA damage in buccal epithelial cells of chronic gingivitis patients who were given adjunct 0.2% CHX for plaque control.

Materials and Methods:

Chronic gingivitis patients who were exclusively on mechanical plaque control methods were taken as control (Group A) (n = 101), and chronic gingivitis patients who along with mechanical plaque control measures were taking 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash as adjunct were taken as cases (Group B) (n = 255). The Group B was further divided into 5 subgroups (B1, B2, B3, B4, B5) (n = 51) on increasing duration of usage of CHX from ≤1 week to 24 weeks. Buccal epithelial cells were gently scrapped from the buccal mucosa using soft toothbrush. The epithelial cells were collected in buffer solution and centrifuged at 8000 rpm for 5 min. The buccal epithelial cells were air dried, fixed, and stained with 5% Giemsa stain on preheated glass microscopic slides and observed under microscope to screen 2000 nucleated cells per individual for number of micronucleated cells and micronuclei as genotoxic measure.

Results:

The mean number of micronucleated cells was found to be 0.41 ± 0.71 for Group A as compared values ranging from 1.65 ± 2.09 (Group B1) to 11.7 ± 1.87 (Group B5) in different subgroups of Group B, and similarly, the mean number of micronuclei was found to be 0.48 ± 0.80 for Group A as compared to values ranging from 2.57 ± 1.64 (Group B1) to 14.5 ± 2.49 (Group B5) in different subgroups of Group B using analysis of variance (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

We conclude that CHX mouthwash is genotoxic to buccal epithelial cells and there is incremental trend in genotoxicity as the duration of usage is increased.

Chromosomal damage and apoptosis analysis in exfoliated oral epithelial cells from mouthwash and alcohol users

Chromosomal damage and apoptosis were analyzed in users of mouthwash and/or alcoholic beverages, using the micronucleus test on exfoliated oral mucosa cells. Samples from four groups of 20 individuals each were analyzed: three exposed groups (EG1, EG2 and EG3) and a control group (CG). EG1 comprised mouthwash users; EG2 comprised drinkers, and EG3 users of both mouthwashes and alcoholic beverages. Cell material was collected by gently scraping the insides of the cheeks. Then the cells were fixed in a methanol/acetic acid (3:1) solution and stained and counterstained, respectively, with Schiff reactive and fast green. Endpoints were computed on 2,000 cells in a blind test. Statistical analysis showed that chromosomal damage and apoptosis were significantly higher in individuals of groups EG1 and EG3 than in controls (p < 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively). No significant difference in chromosomal damage and apoptosis was observed between the exposed groups. In EG2, only the occurrence of apoptosis was significantly higher than in the controls. These results suggest that mouthwashes alone or in association with alcoholic drinks induce genotoxic effects, manifested as chromosomal damage and apoptosis. They also suggest that alcoholic drinks are effective for stimulating the process of apoptosis. However, these data need to be confirmed in larger samples.

Cytogenetic analysis of oral mucosa cells, induced by chlorhexidine, essential oils in ethanolic solution and triclosan mouthwashes

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate DNA damage and cytokinetic defects, proliferative potential and cell death caused by the frequent use of mouthrinses containing chlorhexidine, triclosan and essential oils in ethanolic solution, compared to a placebo mouthwash.

STUDY DESIGN

This double-blind, prospective, randomized clinical trial included 80 Caucasian patients. Subjects were divided into four groups: Group I used a mouthrinse, Triclosan; Group II used physiological saline; Group III used chlorhexidine; Group IV a mouthrinse with essential oils in ethanolic solution. All subjects used the mouthrinses for two weeks (15 ml, twice a day, rinsing for 30s). Two cell samples per subject were collected, before and after mouthrinse use (on day 0 and day 15). Samples were processed as follows: cell collection from cheeks with a cytobrush; cell centrifuge; slide preparation, fixation and staining; and fluorescent microscope analysis. 2000 exfoliated cells were screened for nuclear abnormalities, particularly the presence of micronuclei by means of cytome assay.

RESULTS

No significant differences between study times (before and after use of mouthwash) were identified for any of the variables studied (p>0.05). Differences between mouthrinse groups were also compared but no significant differences were found (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study did not observe any genotoxic effect resulting from mouthrinse use.

Genotoxicity in gingival cells of patients undergoing tooth restoration with two different dental composite materials

OBJECTIVES

Dental composite materials come into direct contact with oral tissue, especially gingival cells. This study was performed to evaluate possible DNA damage to gingival cells exposed to resin composite dental materials.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Class V restorations were placed in 30 adult patients using two different composite resins. The epithelial cells of the gingival area along the composite restoration were sampled prior to and after 7, 30, and 180 days following the restoration of the tooth. DNA damage was analysed by comet and micronucleus assays in gingival exfoliated epithelial cells.

RESULTS

The results showed significantly higher comet assay parameters (tail length and % DNA in the tail) within periods of 30 and 180 days. The micronucleus test for the same exposure time demonstrated a higher number of cells with micronuclei, karyolysis, and nuclear buds. Results did not reveal any difference between the two composite materials for the same duration of exposure.

CONCLUSION

Based on the results, we can conclude that the use of composite resins causes cellular damage. As dental composite resins remain in intimate contact with oral tissue over a long period of time, further research on their possible genotoxicity is advisable.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Long-term exposure of gingival cells to two different composite materials demonstrated certain DNA damage. However, considering the significant decline in micronuclei frequency after 180 days and efficiency in the repair of primary DNA damage, the observed effects could not be indicated as biologically relevant.

Cytological changes in the oral mucosa after use of a mouth rinse with alcohol. A prospective double blind control study

AIM

The aim of this preliminary study was to detect cytological changes in the oral mucosa after using a mouth wash with alcohol.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective double-blind, controlled study was performed, for 6 months. Group 1 consisted of 30 subjects who used a mouth rinse with 26.9% of alcohol [Listerine] and Group 2 consisted of 30 subjects who used a mouth rinse with the same ingredients but with no alcohol. We obtained three cytological samples from the oral mucosa. The presence of cytological atypia, binucleation and karyorrhesis, and type of cells were studied. We also used a fluorescent in situ hybridization technique (FISH) in 15 samples in each group, for the micronucleus.

RESULTS

We found no clinical mucosal alteration after using the mouth wash at the end of the study in either group. We observed no cytological differences between the groups at the end of the study (p>0.05). Regarding the study of the micronucleus by FISH, we observed no significant difference between the groups (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed no cytological alteration in patients using a mouth rinse with alcohol, but these findings should be considered preliminary results, to be confirmed in a greater sample of patients.

Effectiveness and safety of a mouthwash containing essential oil ingredients

The mouthwash, Listerine®, was compounded in 1879 from four essential oils. Later, the oils were replaced by one ingredient per oil with approximately 25% ethanol as a vehicle to keep them in solution. From then on, Listerine® was no longer a medicinal plant product. In 2003, a review by the FDA Subcommittee on Oral Health Care Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use concluded that the product is effective and safe, and a review of studies published in the meantime showed that Listerine® fulfils the consensus criteria for an effective antigingivitis/antiplaque product. However, concerns have been raised about the long-term safety of some of the ingredients, particularly the ethanol content, and in the light of these concerns, the evidence has been re-examined for both the efficacy and safety of Listerine®. In summary, the studies support the claim that Listerine® shows benefit for oral health, but the concerns over its safety remain to be clarified. Until these have been addressed, high risk populations (children, alcohol addicts, patients with genetic deficiencies in ethanol metabolism) should use alcohol-free mouthwashes for the maintenance of oral health.