Does Peridex Mouthwash Contain Alcohol?

Understanding Peridex and Its Ingredients

Peridex is an oral rinse used to treat gingivitis and help prevent plaque buildup and gingivitis. It contains two active ingredients: chlorhexidine gluconate and alcohol.

Chlorhexidine gluconate is an antiseptic that helps reduce bacteria in the mouth. It binds to teeth, gums, and mucous membranes and continues working for several hours, even after you have rinsed it away.

In addition to chlorhexidine gluconate, Peridex contains alcohol. The alcohol in Peridex serves an important purpose. It helps the chlorhexidine gluconate penetrate plaque and salivary proteins on oral surfaces. This improves the delivery of the antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate to where it is needed most.

The Role of Alcohol in Peridex

The alcohol in Peridex helps the antiseptic ingredient chlorhexidine gluconate spread over and penetrate the oral surfaces. Alcohol enables the chlorhexidine gluconate to reach areas of the mouth that need more complete disinfection from bacteria.

Without alcohol to act as a dispersing agent, the chlorhexidine gluconate would not be able to penetrate plaque and salivary proteins as effectively. The chlorhexidine gluconate would only disinfect the surfaces it directly contacted.

So while Peridex does contain alcohol, it is in there for an important reason. The alcohol enables the antiseptic properties of chlorhexidine gluconate to work optimally.

Peridex Contains a Low Percentage of Alcohol

Although Peridex contains alcohol, the amount is relatively low. Peridex is an oral rinse that contains 0.05% chlorhexidine gluconate dissolved in 11.6% alcohol.

So in each dose of Peridex, only 11.6% consists of alcohol. The rest of the oral rinse is made up of water, flavoring, saccharin, and other inactive ingredients.

The small amount of alcohol helps distribute the chlorhexidine gluconate properly. It allows the antiseptic to work most effectively at reducing oral bacteria.

Using Peridex as Directed

It is important to use Peridex exactly as prescribed by your dentist. Misusing the oral rinse could lead to adverse effects or poor results.

The dose for Peridex is 15 mL used as a mouth rinse twice daily. Swish the rinse around your mouth for 30 seconds and then spit it out. Do not swallow the rinse.

Be sure to rinse with water after using Peridex. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterwards so the medication can act fully.

Use Peridex for the full course prescribed by your dentist, even if symptoms resolve earlier. Stopping too soon could allow bacteria to regrow.

Who Should Not Use Peridex

While the amount of alcohol in Peridex is low, there are some people who should not use it:

• Children under 12 years old
• People with sensitivity or allergy to chlorhexidine gluconate or alcohol
• People with significant liver disease or damage

Pregnant women should also talk to their doctor before using Peridex, as the effects on an unborn baby are unknown.

Side Effects of Peridex

When used as directed, Peridex is generally well-tolerated. However, some people may experience side effects such as:

• Tooth discoloration
• Altered taste sensation
• Swelling or soreness of the gums
• Parotid gland swelling

Rinsing with water after using Peridex can help minimize any side effects. Discontinuing use and seeing a dentist if problems persist is also recommended.

Peridex vs Alcohol-Free Rinses

Because Peridex contains alcohol, some people may wonder if an alcohol-free oral rinse would be a better option. However, there are important differences between Peridex and alcohol-free products.

How Peridex and Alcohol-Free Rinses Work

Peridex works by allowing the chlorhexidine gluconate antiseptic to penetrate the oral surfaces thanks to the dispersing power of alcohol. It kills a wide variety of bacteria.

Alcohol-free rinses do not contain chlorhexidine gluconate. Instead, they often rely on chemicals like cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils to reduce oral bacteria.

While alcohol-free rinses can temporarily lower bacterial levels, they are not as effective at reaching plaque and oral surfaces. The antiseptic effects also do not last as long.

When Each Type of Rinse May be Preferred

Peridex may be preferred in cases of:

• Moderate to severe gingivitis
• Periodontal surgery
• Higher risk of infection
• Need for strong antiseptic effects

Alcohol-free rinses may be preferred for:

• Mild gingivitis
• Daily prevention of plaque
• Low risk of infection
• Sensitivities to alcohol

Those with liver disease, religious objections to alcohol, or who are in recovery from alcoholism may also specifically prefer alcohol-free oral rinses.

Ask Your Dentist About the Best Option

Ultimately, your dentist is best qualified to determine whether Peridex or an alcohol-free oral rinse is right for your oral health needs.

Be sure to bring up any concerns you may have about alcohol content. Your dentist can help weigh the pros and cons for your specific situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is all of the alcohol burned off in Peridex?

No, the alcohol in Peridex is not burned off. The oral rinse contains 11.6% alcohol when you use it. The alcohol enables the antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate to penetrate oral surfaces for optimal effectiveness against bacteria.

Can I drink alcohol while using Peridex?

You should avoid consuming alcoholic beverages within several hours of using Peridex. The alcohol can interact with the rinse and reduce its bactericidal effects. Check with your dentist, but avoiding alcohol for at least 4-6 hours after using Peridex is recommended.

Is Peridex safe during pregnancy?

The safety of Peridex during pregnancy is unclear. Animal studies showed no evidence of fetal harm, but well-controlled studies in pregnant women are lacking. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your dentist and obstetrician first.

Does Peridex cure gingivitis?

Peridex can help treat acute cases of gingivitis and reduce gingival inflammation. However, it does not provide a permanent cure on its own. Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly are also key to preventing recurring gingivitis.

Can I use mouthwash after Peridex?

It's best to avoid using other mouthwashes immediately after using Peridex, as they can dilute the rinse and make it less effective. Wait at least 30 minutes after rinsing with Peridex before using other oral rinses.

The Bottom Line

Peridex does contain a low percentage of alcohol. However, the alcohol serves an important purpose - it enables the antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate to spread over and penetrate the oral surfaces more effectively. When used exactly as directed, Peridex can safely and effectively reduce oral bacteria.

Speak to your dentist if you have any concerns about alcohol content or want to discuss alternative alcohol-free rinses. Your dentist can help determine the best oral rinse for your needs.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.