Cancer researcher: Skip the mouthwash and stick to brushing and flossing

There are occasions and conditions for which a dentist could prescribe a mouthwash – it could be that a patient has a low salivary flow because of a particular condition or medicine they are taking. But for me, all that’s necessary, in general, is good regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing combined with regular check-ups by a dentist.

— Dr. David Conway, a clinical senior lecturer at Glasgow University Dental School, explaining that routine use of mouthwash ought to be avoided. A study conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer has found that excessive use of mouthwash might increase the risk or oral cancer. More research is needed.