How swishing a mouthwash often, can raise one's Blood Pressure

Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range is vital, for both the heart and overall well‑being. While most of us depend on exercise and medication, newer research suggests that something ordinary as the mouthwash you use, might also tip the scales. Recent studies have uncovered that certain mouthwash formulas can unsettle the balance of bacteria in your mouth, interfering with a mechanism that helps keep blood pressure in check. Let’s take a closer look…
The mouth-heart connection
Our mouths harbor billions of bacteria, many of which serve purposes far beyond simply protecting our teeth. Amidst them, some specialised strains take the nitrates we ingest from foods, like spinach and beetroot first converting them into nitrite, and then into nitric oxide (NO). That nitric oxide is a molecule prompting blood vessels to relax and enhancing circulation, which helps keep blood pressure at a level.
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How antibacterial mouthwash interferes with Nitric Oxide production
A landmark 2019 trial found that one week of using a chlorhexidine‑based mouthwash daily, can dramatically curtail the population of nitrate‑reducing bacteria in the mouth. The experiment monitored both systolic blood‑pressure shifts and alterations in flora, among otherwise healthy participants. The outcome was unmistakable: systolic pressure spiked appreciably, while the cadre of microbes dwindled. Results demonstrated a significant increase in systolic blood pressure and a reduction in beneficial oral bacteria.

Nitric Oxide: The natural blood vessel relaxer
Nitric oxide is a gaseous signaling molecule, that smooths and relaxes the lining of blood vessels, helping to regulate blood flow and pressure. Beyond that, it tampers down inflammation, and thwarts clot formation for a healthy cardiovascular system. Your body produces nitric oxide naturally, but a significant amount depends on the oral bacteria’s conversion of dietary nitrates.


Eradicating microbes with a mouthwash, shuts down the nitrate‑to‑nitrite‑to‑nitric‑oxide cascade. While that might minor, even a modest dip in nitric‑oxide can nudge blood pressure enough to be measurable - a clear risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Researchers are now recognising that the bacteria as an important part of this vital process, which may have been previously overlooked.

Frequent mouthwash - Use and risk of Hypertension
Epidemiological research has identified a link between use of over‑the‑counter mouthwash, and a heightened risk of developing hypertension ( blood pressure). A study tracking middle‑aged adults found that those who swished with mouthwash at least twice daily, faced almost twice the odds of hypertension, compared with people who used it less often or not at all.

The heightened risk stayed statistically significant even after we factored in the other culprits - age, smoking, diet and activity levels. This points to mouthwash itself as a driver of blood‑pressure spikes. However, more research is needed to fully understand causality, and the best recommendations for mouthwash use.

Choosing the right mouthwash
What you really need to know is that not all mouthwashes influence bacteria and blood pressure. A sizable chunk of them are packed with antiseptics - chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride being the suspects - that have been linked to the knock‑down of nitrate‑reducing bacteria. If you lean on mouthwash as part of your care routine, it’s wise to scan the ingredients and perhaps opt for a formula that sidesteps those potent antiseptics. Ask your dentist or healthcare provider which oral‑care products are safe, especially if high blood pressure is a concern. Some mouthwashes are formulated to freshen breath and prevent cavities while staying gentle on the bacteria in your mouth.

Everyday hacks to keep your oral microbiome healthy and your Blood Pressure, in check
Limit the use of strong antibacterial mouthwash containing chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride
Stick, to an oral‑care routine- brush and floss, and milder rinses or natural alternatives. If you regularly swish a mouthwash, bring it up at your doctor’s appointment. The physician may recommend an oral‑care routine.

Include nitrate-rich vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, and beets in your diet to support nitric oxide production.
Drink plenty of water and shun habits that upset the bacteria in your mouth-tobacco being one of them.

Have a chat with your dentist to sort out mouthwash choices that are safe, especially if you’re living with hypertension.

New studies are uncovering a link between the way you tend to your teeth and gums, and the way your blood pressure behaves. Keeping the microbes in your mouth, especially those that help generate oxide, can aid in keeping vessels supple, and in cutting down the odds of hypertension.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice