You can overbrush but can you over rinse?

Question

Does too much alcohol in the listerine make the gums dry and recede?

Answer 1

Yes, the alcohol in some mouthwashes can be harsh on the gums causing it to become dry and slough off. Rinsing several times a day (excessively) can also cause a condition called "hairy tongue". The tongue does not actually grow hair but the papillae on the surface of the tongue becomes elongated (resembling hairs). They then get stained by food, drinks etc. and take on a brownish black color. Mouthwash should only be used to a maximum of 2 times a day. Im not sure that the mouthwash is causing gums to recede, but definitely the dryness. Try using one without alcohol.