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Understanding Mouth Swab Drug Test And Tips For Passing One

This blog reviews what exactly is an oral drug test and what are some of the tips to pass an oral drug test. We have also listed some substances that undergo such tests. Along with this, we have given some insights into possible factors that can affect the detection period of drugs. Let's go and explore how to pass an oral drug test.

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Drug abuse and addiction remain significant challenges in the United States. Whether you're aiming to retain your job, participate in specific activities, or achieve a personal milestone, passing a mouth swab drug test—also known as an oral or saliva drug test—can be crucial. While there's no guaranteed method to ensure a successful result, adopting certain strategies can enhance your chances. This guide explores effective detox mouthwashes and natural remedies to help you prepare for a mouth swab drug test. But first, learn about a mouth swab drug test.

What is a Mouth Swab Drug Test?

A mouth swab drug test or saliva drug test is a quick and easy way to test for the presence of drugs in a person's system. A small sample of saliva is taken from the person being tested, and the sample is then analyzed for the presence of drugs. However, the time can vary depending on the drug used. When are mouth swab drug tests used? They are often used to detect drugs in people suspected of drug-related offenses. It can find the drug in the system within 24-48 hours after last use.

Such drug-related offenses include:

  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

  • Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

  • Operating Under the Influence (OUI) and

  • Operating a Motor Vehicle Intoxicated (OMVI)

mouth swab drug test kit

How to Pass a Mouth Swab Drug Test: Effective Strategies

Want to know, “How to pass an oral swab on the same day” or looking for “How to pass a mouth swab test in 12 hours?” Well, frequent use of detox mouthwashes is very useful when it comes to passing an oral drug test in 12 hours. They can clear the saliva of drugs and their metabolites. Moreover, they must be used at a specific time before the test takes place.

Know About the Mouthwashes to Pass Mouth Swab Drug Test

The following are some promising mouthwashes to get rid of drugs from your mouth:

1. Toxin Rid Rescue Wash

It is one of the last-minute solutions for eliminating drug toxins. Its key ingredients are Witch Hazel, Magnesium, Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, and Aloe Vera. Magnesium activates the enzymes responsible for mouth cleaning and ascorbic acid & glycerin oxidize and balance out the drug metabolites. Hazel’s astringent effects assist in cleaning the saliva and eliminating the toxins. Use 1/3 of the liquid and hold it for 3-5 minutes and then spit it out. Repeat it for 2-3 times. 

2. Stinger Detox Mouthwash

It works the same as Toxin Rid Rescue. The only difference is it is swallowed instead of spitting it out. It consists of ingredients such as sodium benzoate, citric acid, and sugar. They work together to remove drug metabolites from the system. In addition, the mouthwash is free of alcohol. Just take a small quantity of this detox product, swirl using it for 1 minute, and then swallow it. 

3. Supreme Klean Saliva Detox Mouthwash

This unique mouthwash balances out the drug metabolites in the saliva within some time. Its active ingredients work by blending the metabolites present in the saliva. This makes the drug unnoticed throughout the drug test. Use 1/3 of this detox mouthwash at least 1 hour or less before undergoing a drug test. Gargle and rinse using it for about 3 minutes and then spit it out. Don’t consume any food or drinks after it to keep its effectiveness.

4. Macujo Detox Mouthwash

This product consists of cleansing agents that stick to the drug toxins and neutralize them in the saliva. It typically shows a quick effect, allowing the person to take a drug test within thirty minutes. Just use half the quantity of the mouthwash 1 hour before the test. Hold it in the mouth for 10-15 minutes and then rinse the mouth using it for about 2- 3 minutes. Gulp the mouthwash and then use the remaining half and spit it out.

Home Remedies to Pass a Mouth Swab Drug Test

You can also try some natural ways to pass a mouth swab drug test that includes: 

1. Mints, Candies, and Chewing Gums

As per research, chewing gum, mints, and citric acid-containing candies all have been shown to increase salivation. This effect alters the pH and level of specific medications in the saliva. The concentration of drugs in the participant's system may decrease to a point below the detection threshold. This depends on the amount of drugs present in the body. Moreover, it is generally important to mention that these gums and mints have temporary effects.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

It is a potent ingredient that can be used as a mouthwash to get rid of toxins from the saliva. It works by breaking down drug metabolites which permanently destroys them, increasing the chances of negative drug reports. Moreover, being antiseptic, hydrogen peroxide can remove bacteria in the mouth. This consequently can reduce the drug residues and also improve oral hygiene. Use 1 to 2 tablespoons of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution and swirl using it for 15-30 minutes before undergoing a test. Rinse the entire mouth for at least 1 minute and then spit it out. Make sure to clean your entire mouth with water. Avoid the foods and drinks after it to retain the efficacy of this solution throughout the drug test.

3. Vinegar Rinse

Apple cider vinegar is the most common home remedy for a mouth swab drug test. It is acidic and can eliminate the drugs from the mouth. It also activates the production of saliva which improves drug absorption, giving negative results. Moreover, being naturally antibiotic in nature, vinegar can reduce the density of the metabolites and even maintain oral hygiene. Prepare the vinegar rinse by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar in 1 cup of water. Swirl the mouth using this solution for 1 minute and then spit it out. Perform many repetitions before the drug test takes place.

4. Detox Drinks 

Detox beverages are most typically used for urine drug tests. However, its marketing claims it will remove all evidence of drug usage from saliva as well. In most circumstances, this is not valid; however, if the person drinks it right before the testing, it may temporarily lessen the level of some compounds in the mouth. 

5. Lemon Juice and Water Rinse

Being sour, lemon juice gives an astringent effect. This helps get rid of drug metabolites from the mouth which helps beat the mouth swab test. Moreover, it also helps pass the saliva drug test as the juice is also acidic. By eliminating the drug residues, it also freshens up the whole mouth before undergoing a drug test. You can also prepare the rinse by mixing lemon juice in water in a ratio of 1:1. Swirl using it for at least 1 minute and then spit the solution out. Repeat the process many times before the test. 

Important Considerations:

Alcohol and the use of tobacco products are the other considerations people should take while undergoing oral drug tests. It would help if you avoid smoking or using tobacco for at least an hour before the test. Finally, make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly before the test. This will help to remove any residue that may be on your teeth.

However, "remember, prevention is the best cure. Stay drug-free and avoid the hassle of passing an oral drug test altogether."

What Substances are Tested in Oral Drug Tests?

Many different intoxicating substances are tested via these tests. Both single substance-detection saliva tests, used for alcohol and marijuana swab testing, and multiple substance-detection panels, which can detect multiple drugs, are available.

The test usually includes common drugs of abuse such as:

  • Alcohol

  • Amphetamines

  • Barbiturates

  • Benzodiazepines

  • Cocaine

  • Marijuana

  • Methamphetamine

  • Opioids

  • Opiates

  • Phencyclidine

Detection Windows of Substances for Mouth Swab Drug Tests

Have a look at the detection window of oral drug tests according to the kind of drug you intake: 

Substances

Detection Window

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) 

few hours

Benzodiazepines

2.5 days

Amphetamines 

2 days

Opioids and Opiates 

12 to 32 hours

Oxycodone

12 to 32 hours

Heroin

5 hours

Hydrocodone

7 to 28 hours

Fentanyl 

4 days

Barbiturates

52 hours

Alcohol 

12 to 24 hours

How Accurate Is A Mouth Swab Drug Test? 

Though a swab test is less accurate than a blood and urine test, it can easily detect whether a person has recently smoked or consumed a drug. However, the detection time can vary depending on these factors:

  • Substance used: the detection time of the different substances can vary as the body metabolizes them at different rates. 

  • Frequency and dosage of the substance: the higher the dosage and frequency, the longer the drug will take to eliminate from the saliva. 

  • Route of drug administration: If you consume the drug, it will remain saliva for a longer period. 

  • Body’s metabolism: The higher the metabolism, the more the body will metabolize the drug. 

  • pH level of saliva: The saliva’s pH should be neutral as more acidic saliva can react with drugs as certain drugs have an alkaline nature.

Test Results and Their Meaning

An oral drug test or a mouth swab drug test can be negative, positive, or inconclusive. Each result can indicate a different meaning. These include:

Negative

If you get a negative report, this means your sample contains no or a small amount of substance.

Positive

If you test positive, it means your sample contains more quantity of a specific drug. This might have certain consequences.

Inconclusive

The test shows an inconclusive report when there are technical issues with medical equipment or some other problems. It shows your oral drug test is neither negative nor positive. So, in this case, you might need another test. 

Suggestions For People Taking a Drug Test

If you are dealing with drug use and soon undergoing a pre-employment drug test, consider these suggestions to prevent any issues in the future:

  • Seek professional help: The specialists can guide you through the detoxification process. Additionally, they can help manage the withdrawal symptoms.

  • Talk with people around you: Be honest with your family members and friends too. They are the ones who can support you throughout this time.

  • Work with therapists: They can assist with a recovery plan. The plan includes support groups, medication-assisted treatment, and therapies to cope with drug addiction.

  • Adopt some lifestyle changes: Those include meditation, exercising, and engaging in your favorite hobbies. You can even invite other people and have fun together.

  • Be committed: Keep in mind that healing is a long process. Be consistent and keep going forward. 

Summing Up

The good news is that now you know how to pass a mouth swab drug test. Rinsing the mouth using mouthwashes, using hydrogen peroxide or vinegar rinse, drinking a lot of fluids, avoiding alcohol and tobacco products, refusing drug use several days before the test, brushing the teeth frequently, eating fiber-rich food, etc. can help pass a mouth swab test. However, some detox drinks, chewing gums, mints, and candies have also been shown to be very helpful in passing an oral drug test by lowering the concentration of drugs below the detection threshold. So, I hope now you understand better "how do you beat a mouth swab". I wish you the best of luck!

Related Read: Does Certo Work For Urine Test?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do drugs stay in saliva?

The typical detection window for a mouth swab drug test is 48 hours.

Is it legal to use narcotic drugs?

In most countries, it is illegal and punishable to use narcotic drugs.

How far inside does a mouth swab travel?

The swab is inserted into the mouth between the cheek and gum line and rubbed on the inside of the cheek for about 30 seconds. The swab is then inserted into the collection tube and sealed.

What can you use to pass oral drug test?

To successfully clear an oral drug test, it's essential to refrain from drug use and uphold proper oral hygiene.

What should I avoid before a saliva drug test?

In preparation for a saliva drug test, it's important to steer clear of drugs, alcohol, nicotine, and poppy-containing items.

How do they test for oral drug test?

During an oral drug test, a saliva swab is utilized to collect a sample for drug presence screening.

How to pass a mouth swab drug test?

To pass a mouth swab drug test, follow strategies like abstaining from drug use, practicing good oral hygiene, and being prepared for the test.

Should I chew gum before oral drug test?

Chewing gum before an oral drug test is not a reliable method to beat the test, as traces of drugs can still be detected.

How to pass mouth swab test in 12 hours?

Avoid drug use and use a strong mouthwash before the test, though results may not be guaranteed.

How to pass mouth swab for THC?

Use detox gums and strong detoxifying mouthwashes to pass a mouth swab test for THC metabolites.

What can make you fail an oral drug test?

Failing an oral drug test is typically due to recent drug use or exposure to substances that leave traces detectable in saliva.