7 Possible Side Effects of Rinsing Mouth with Salt Water: What You Need to Know

Salt water rinse is considered the best home remedy for mouth ulcers to sore throats. Natural, cheap, and simple, it seems harmless. Right? Though a saltwater rinse can support oral hygiene, excessive or inappropriate use may outweigh its benefits. 

This article will guide you on the potential side effects of rinsing your mouth with salt water, how to safely use it, and whether it's better than commercial mouthwashes. Let's start.

6 Potential Side Effects of Rinsing Mouth With Salt Water

Though a safe alternative to alcohol-containing mouthwashes, you should also be aware of these unwanted effects of saltwater mouth rinse: 

1. Dry Mouth

• The dehydrating effect of salt can reduce saliva production when salt saltwater rinse is used excessively.

• This can lead to dry mouth, and research reports that dry mouth can lead to a risk of tooth decay, bad breath, and infection.

• In case of dry mouth, use the salt water rinse less and drink a lot of water throughout the day. 

2. Gum Irritation & Sensitivity

• Too often, rinsing with highly concentrated salt can irritate the soft gum tissues, making the gums more prone to soreness, inflammation, redness, tenderness, and burning sensations.

• In addition, they can worsen the gum issues if you are already living with them instead of managing them.

• So, the best advice is to use a moderate salt amount (half a teaspoon each glass of water) for only 1 to 2 times a day. 

3. Enamel Erosion

• In rare cases, the excessive use of salt water rinse, particularly with high salt concentration, can erode tooth enamel.

• This makes the teeth more sensitive and vulnerable to cavities, decay, and yellowing.

• So, always clean the mouth with plain water after using a salt water rinse to get rid of the left salt and prevent the wearing of the tooth enamel. 

4. Increased Blood Pressure Risk (in people with hypertension)

• Though salt water is not usually swallowed, some salt can be absorbed in the bloodstream via the mucous membranes.

• Frequent rinsing with salt water can increase the intake of sodium (salt), raising blood pressure levels in people living with hypertension (high blood pressure).

• If you are struggling with increased blood pressure, see a dental professional before using salt water rinse.

5. Imbalance in Oral pH

• The mouth has very delicate pH levels that assist in maintaining healthy bacteria and prevent infections. Excessive use of salt water rinse can interrupt the pH balance of the mouth for a temporary period.

• This can create an environment for the growth of harmful bacteria and increase the chances of cavities and infections.

• Hence, use the salt water rinse when only required. Do not use it as a daily routine. 

6. Mouth Sensitivity & Discomfort

• Frequent use of salt water rinse or high salt concentration can contribute to mouth sensitivity and discomfort, especially if you are living with open sores, canker sores, and gum disease.

• This can occur due to its dehydrating and irritating effects on the mouth tissues.

• If you experience discomfort, switch to a milder rinse (such as a baking soda solution) and consult a dentist if symptoms persist.

7. Altered Taste Sensation

• Frequent rinsing of the mouth with salt water can change the way your drinks and foods taste for a temporary period. This can lead to a less enjoyable eating experience.

• This change in taste sensation can be more noticeable in people with a low salt taste threshold (the salt concentration that can be detected as salty by a person), overshadowing other flavors.

• So people who depend on their taste buds for professional or pleasurable purposes, like chefs, should schedule their mouth rinsing accordingly to reduce its impact on their taste perception. 

Note: If you experience any side effects that worsen or persist, stop using the salt water rinse and seek medical attention. 

How to Safely Use Salt Water Rinse Without Side Effects

To maximize the salt water rinse's benefits and prevent its side effects, follow these guidelines for safe use:

Salt Water Rinse Recipe:

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to around 240 mL of warm water.

• Stir the mixture till the salt fully dissolves.

How to Use It Properly:

1. Sip salt water and gently swish it around the mouth for around 1 minute.

2. Slightly tilt your head in the back direction and gargle with it for another 30 seconds.

3. Then, spit it out (don’t swallow).

4. Rinse with fresh plain water to remove leftover salt.

Important Note:

1. Do not use salt water rinse more than 2 to 3 times per day, as it can lead to dryness and irritation.

• Avoid using it as a permanent alternative for brushing and flossing.

• If you have any preexisting oral tissues or health conditions, discuss them with your dentist. 

Important Precautions While Using Salt Water Rinse

Though salt water rinse is considered safe, it might not be a safe option for everyone. Hence, one needs to consider these precautions:

• Though safe to swallow, the best is to spit salt water out to prevent the risk of dehydration or high blood pressure.

• Use it after meals, before bed, or as your dental professional recommends.

• Use the Appropriate Concentration: Do not use excessive amounts of salt; just take salt and water in a ratio of 1/2- 1 teaspoon of salt per glass of water.

• Avoid Overuse: Don't overuse to prevent gum irritation or mouth dryness. For maximum effectiveness, 1–2 times per day is enough.

• Clean with Fresh Water Afterward: Wash your mouth to get rid of the leftover salt and avoid the risk of enamel damage.

• Avoid it in Case of High Blood Pressure: As salt can be absorbed through the mouth tissues, it can raise blood volume and put pressure on blood vessel walls, increasing high blood pressure. Talk to a doctor if needed.

• Be gentle while swishing: Avoid forceful swishing to prevent the risk of worsening of sore (in case you have any) or irritation in the sensitive gums.

• Don't use it as a substitute for dental care: Avoid using it daily for dental care as excessive use can cause gum irritation and damage to enamel due to salt (sodium) content.

• See a Dentist for Persistent Problems: In case of persistent tooth swelling or pain, consult a dental professional rather than depending on salt water.

How to Make a Salt Water Rinse?

Follow these simple steps:

• Take warm water, boil it, and let it cool to a warm temperature.

• Add any type of salt to it. For 8 oz of warm water, add 1 teaspoon of salt. But if you have a tender mouth and the salt water irritates, take 1/2 teaspoon of salt for the initial 1-2 days.

• For additional soothing and healing effects, add extra ingredients such as honey or hydrogen peroxide and stir the solution well before using it.

• Once done with mouth rinsing, throw the leftover solution to avoid the chances of contamination.

How Often Should You Rinse With Salt Water?

The frequency of use of salt water rinse depends on the oral health needs:

• For daily maintenance of oral health, using the salt water rinse 1 to 2 times a day is enough.

• After undergoing dental procedures or having oral injuries, use it 3 to 4 times daily.

• In case of gum infection and sore throat, rinse 2 to 3 times daily to get relief.

Note: Do not use excessively, as it can lead to mouth dehydration. Remember that moderation is key!

Salt Water Rinse vs. Commercial Mouthwash: Which Is Better?

The answer depends on the specific issue of the individual. Here's a quick comparison:

Feature	Salt Water Rinse	Commercial Mouthwash
Fights Bacteria	Yes (but mild)	Stronger antibacterial properties
Soothes Sore Gums	Alcohol-free and gentle	Some contain alcohol, which may sting
Prevents Bad Breath	Temporary freshening	Long-lasting freshness
Strengthens Teeth	No direct effect	Fluoride helps remineralize enamel
pH Balance Support	Can temporarily disrupt pH	Formulated for balanced pH
Best For	Occasional natural remedy	Daily use for complete oral care

• Use salt water rinse for short-term relief (sore gums, mild infections).

• Use commercial mouthwash for long-term dental hygiene (plaque prevention, fresh breath, enamel protection).

Benefits of Salt Water Rinses & Commercial Mouthwashes

Benefits of Salt Water Rinses

• Fights Bacteria: Helps fight off some harmful bacteria, lowering mouth infection risk.

• Soothes Sore Gums: Relieves gum irritation and inflammation as it's alcohol-free.

• Promotes Healing: Helps with healing of minor mouth sores or post-dental treatment.

• Prevents Bad Breath: Maintains fresh breath and balances odors.

• Alleviates Tooth Decay: Lowers plaque accumulation and promotes good oral hygiene.

• Relieves Sore Throat: Assists in releasing discomfort from a sore throat due to salt water gargle.

Benefits of Commercial Mouthwashes:

• Target Specific Issues: Treats plaque and prevents harmful mouth bacteria and sensitivity.

• Provides Long-Lasting Fresh Breath: Effectively prevents bad breath and keeps the mouth fresh for many hours.

• Strengthens Teeth: Research says that fluoride-containing mouthwashes effectively help remineralize tooth enamel more than the standard calcifying solution.

• Professional Formulations: Often guaranteed by dental professionals and medical research for specific oral health problems.

When to See a Dentist?

If you experience persistent oral issues like:

• Dry mouth that doesn’t improve

• Gum irritation or bleeding

• Tooth sensitivity or pain

• Bad breath despite good hygiene

Consult a dentist instead of relying solely on home remedies.

Importance of Considering Professional Oral Care

Though including salt water rinse in your oral care routine is a healthy practice, it's crucial to not neglect the importance of professional care which is beneficial in the following manner:

• Expert Diagnosis: Identifies and manages all the unnoticed oral health problems such as infections, cavities, or gum disease.

• Customized Treatment: Offers personalized treatments that are customized according to the specific dental needs.

• Preventive Care: Regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings alleviate dental issues in the future thus, eventually saving money and time.

• Treat Complex Issues: Addresses severe oral issues like gum disease, decay, or misalignment that home remedies can't fix efficiently.

• Advanced Technology: With the use of high-end techniques and tools, precise diagnoses and efficient dental treatments are conducted.

• Long-Term Health Maintenance: Consistent professional dental care maintains and preserves oral health, leading to much better overall well-being.

Final Thoughts

Side effects of rinsing your mouth with salt water can occur if taken as a long-term treatment. Salt water rinses are a great natural remedy for oral health, but overuse can lead to gum irritation, dry mouth, enamel erosion, increased blood pressure, or mouth sensitivity. The key is moderation and proper technique. Use salt water rinse as a short-term solution, follow safe usage guidelines to avoid side effects, and remember, don’t replace professional dental care with home remedies.

If you experience any of these side effects while using a saltwater rinse, consult a dentist today.