Antibacterial mouthwashes are an integral part of daily dental hygiene in many bathrooms. They promise fresh breath, protection against cavities, and a "bacteria-free" feeling in the mouth. But what sounds healthy at first glance can become problematic in the long run.
Just like in the gut, our mouths also have a finely balanced microbiome—the oral flora . If this delicate balance is disturbed, harmful germs can multiply even more easily. In this article, you'll learn why antibacterial mouthwashes should be viewed with skepticism, what negative consequences they can have—and why Streptococcus salivarius M18 is a sensible, natural alternative.
What do antibacterial mouthwashes really do?
Products containing active ingredients such as chlorhexidine , cetylpyridinium chloride , or triclosan have a strong antibacterial effect. They kill not only pathogenic germs but also many beneficial bacteria that play a key role in our oral health.
The result: a disruption of the natural microbiome , similar to the effect of antibiotics in the gut. While these rinses can temporarily inhibit inflammation or reduce bacterial counts—for example, in cases of gum problems or after surgery—the disadvantages often outweigh the benefits with regular use.
Negative effects on the oral flora
Long-term or daily use of antibacterial mouthwashes can disrupt the healthy balance of oral bacteria. Studies show that the following problems can occur:
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The number of beneficial bacteria that keep caries and periodontitis germs in check is decreasing significantly.
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The reduction of the microbial spectrum can lead to overgrowth with problematic germs such as Streptococcus mutans – a major cause of tooth decay.
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The natural pH value in the mouth can change, which promotes acid formation .
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Bad breath can also worsen because certain sulfur compounds increase without counter-regulation by healthy germs.
What is particularly critical is that many rinses do not selectively remove bacteria – i.e., they do not differentiate between “good” and “bad”.
The role of the microbiome in the mouth
The oral flora consists of hundreds of bacterial species that together form a protective barrier against pathogenic microorganisms. They are part of the first line of immune defense and produce antimicrobial substances, neutralize acids, and help regenerate the mucous membrane.
If this system is unbalanced, the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, bad breath, fungal infections and even systemic diseases such as cardiovascular problems increases.
Streptococcus salivarius M18 – The healthy alternative
An innovative and natural way to specifically strengthen the oral flora is offered by the probiotic bacterial strain Streptococcus salivarius M18 . This microorganism occurs naturally in the saliva of healthy people and was specifically developed as an oral probiotic .
Unlike chemical mouthwashes, S. salivarius M18 fights pathogenic germs naturally – without destroying the entire microflora. The probiotic produces so-called bacteriocins , which specifically inhibit caries bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans without harming beneficial bacteria.
In addition, M18 promotes the production of enzymes that break down plaque and stabilize the pH level in the mouth. Studies show that regular use:
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Reduce the risk of caries
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Reduce gum inflammation
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Reduce plaque formation
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can improve bad breath
S. salivarius M18 is usually taken in the form of lozenges, which allows targeted colonization in the oral cavity.
Conclusion: Kill less, build more
Antibacterial mouthwashes may seem practical at first glance, but they often solve more problems than they prevent. Modern oral health should therefore focus not on radically "killing" bacteria, but rather on strengthening and balancing the natural oral flora.
Probiotics like Streptococcus salivarius M18 offer a gentle yet effective solution that contributes to long-term dental, gum, and breath health. Those who support their oral flora rather than fighting it not only benefit from improved breath quality but also invest in their overall health.
