When it comes to heart health, there are plenty of things that come to mind—like diet, exercise, and medication. But did you know that a daily dental hygiene item could be affecting your heart? Cardiac surgeon Dr. Jeremy London has recently revealed the one thing he avoids using completely, and it’s a surprising addition to the list of potential heart health risks. The culprit? Mouthwash. Yes, the very product many of us rely on for fresh breath could have unintended consequences for your cardiovascular system.
Cardiac surgeon Dr Jeremy London has warned people to ‘be conscious about what you’re putting in your mouth’ (YouTube/@drjeremylondon)
Why Mouthwash May Harm Your Heart Health
Dr. London, who regularly shares insights on heart and circulatory health, made waves on social media with his strong stance against mouthwash. While many consider mouthwash a staple of their daily hygiene routine, Dr. London claims it could actually be doing more harm than good. His explanation centers around two key issues related to mouthwash’s impact on beneficial bacteria and blood pressure regulation.
Healthy Bacteria in Your Mouth: Why It Matters
You might be surprised to learn that your mouth is home to a diverse microbiome, much like the rest of your gastrointestinal tract. Dr. London explains that mouthwash indiscriminately kills bacteria, including the good bacteria that play a crucial role in overall health.
- The Role of Good Bacteria: Just like the gut, the mouth contains bacteria that help maintain a balanced environment. These bacteria not only keep your mouth healthy but also participate in vital chemical reactions, one of which is related to nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide helps to relax blood vessels, regulate blood pressure, and improve overall heart health.
- Mouthwash’s Impact: Dr. London warns that by using mouthwash regularly, you’re disrupting this natural bacterial balance. Killing off these beneficial bacteria could contribute to higher blood pressure, which is a significant risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. The seemingly innocuous act of using mouthwash could, therefore, have unintended cardiovascular consequences.
How Mouthwash Can Affect Your Blood Pressure
One of the most alarming reasons Dr. London avoids mouthwash is its potential effect on blood pressure. He explains that the good bacteria in your mouth are involved in the conversion of nitrates from food into nitric oxide—a compound that helps dilate blood vessels and manage blood pressure.
- Blood Pressure Connection: By eliminating these bacteria, mouthwash can interrupt the conversion process, potentially leading to increased blood pressure. This might seem like an unlikely cause for concern, but studies have shown that individuals who use mouthwash regularly can experience a noticeable rise in blood pressure over time.
- Why High Blood Pressure Matters: High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a leading risk factor for both heart attacks and strokes. It puts extra strain on your arteries, heart, and other organs, increasing the likelihood of serious cardiovascular events. So, something as simple as mouthwash could potentially contribute to a major health issue.
Dentists Weigh In: Is Mouthwash All Bad?
While Dr. London’s warnings have gained attention, other dental experts offer a more nuanced view of mouthwash use. Dr. Zaeem Jafri, a dentist with Ordo, agrees that mouthwash should not be a replacement for brushing but adds that it can be useful in specific circumstances.
- Using Mouthwash Safely: Dr. Jafri suggests using mouthwash for freshening breath or during the day as a quick clean. However, he emphasizes the importance of timing—mouthwash should not be used immediately after brushing. “Mouthwash can wash away the concentrated fluoride from toothpaste,” he explains, reducing its protective benefits. Instead, he recommends using mouthwash at least 30 minutes before or after brushing to maintain fluoride’s effectiveness.
- Fluoride and Tooth Decay Prevention: The NHS also advises choosing a different time to use mouthwash, such as after lunch, rather than right after brushing. This allows the fluoride in toothpaste to remain on the teeth longer, enhancing protection against tooth decay.
Better Oral Hygiene Habits for Heart Health
If mouthwash isn’t the heart-healthy solution many thought it was, what are the alternatives? Dr. Jafri and other dental experts offer a few simple tips to improve oral health without compromising your heart.
- Replace Toothbrush Heads Regularly: Worn bristles remove less plaque, reducing the effectiveness of brushing. Dr. Jafri advises replacing toothbrush heads every two to three months, or sooner if the bristles appear frayed.
- Use a Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride is crucial for strengthening enamel and preventing decay. Ensure you’re using a fluoride-based toothpaste for optimal protection.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth, areas where toothbrushes can’t reach. Regular flossing reduces the risk of gum disease, which has also been linked to heart disease.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain a healthy oral environment by washing away bacteria and food particles. Proper hydration also supports overall cardiovascular health.
- Choose Your Mouthwash Wisely: If you still want to use mouthwash, look for alcohol-free formulas that are gentler on oral bacteria. Additionally, consider using mouthwash less frequently to maintain the natural balance of bacteria in your mouth.
The Link Between Oral Health and Heart Health
While Dr. London’s warning about mouthwash may seem extreme, it highlights a broader issue: the connection between oral health and heart health. Numerous studies have shown a link between gum disease and cardiovascular problems, suggesting that poor oral hygiene can contribute to systemic inflammation that impacts the heart.
- Inflammation and Heart Disease: Inflammation is a common factor in both gum disease and heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially contributing to the formation of arterial plaque and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Regular Dental Checkups: To maintain both oral and heart health, regular dental checkups are essential. Dentists can spot early signs of gum disease, provide professional cleanings, and offer guidance on maintaining optimal oral hygiene.
Conclusion: Rethink Your Mouthwash Habit for Better Heart Health
While mouthwash may seem like an innocent addition to your daily routine, Dr. London’s insights reveal that it could be more harmful than beneficial—at least when it comes to your heart. By disrupting the beneficial bacteria in your mouth and potentially raising blood pressure, regular mouthwash use may contribute to heart disease risk.
Instead of relying solely on mouthwash, focus on better brushing techniques, flossing, and hydration to protect your oral and heart health. The unexpected link between mouthwash and blood pressure is a reminder that seemingly small habits can have significant impacts on our overall well-being. As always, consult with your healthcare providers for personalized advice, and consider making smarter choices for a healthier heart.
