What does Andrew Huberman recommend instead of mouthwash

Andrew Huberman advises against the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes due to their detrimental effects on the oral microbiome and mucosal lining. Instead, he suggests looking for mouthwashes that are not alcohol-based and that do not contain strong antiseptics unless prescribed by a healthcare professional for serious conditions. He highlights that many people use mouthwash primarily to freshen breath, and this can be achieved with gentler alternatives.

Moreover, Huberman also points out that simple options like swishing with plain water after meals or using baking soda can be effective and safe for oral health. Baking soda, in particular, is noted for its low abrasiveness and can serve as an effective toothpaste option when used with a soft toothbrush 1 2 3.

Huberman Lab

Andrew Huberman suggests several alternatives to alcohol-based mouthwashes for maintaining oral health, including:

1. High Saline Solution: Swishing a high salt solution followed by rinsing with clear water. This promotes a healthy oral microbiome environment without the negative effects of alcohol-based mouthwashes 1.

2. Xylitol-Based Products: Xylitol gums or mints after meals can help reduce the growth of cavity-causing bacteria and improve gum health 2.

3. Plain Water: Simply swishing with plain water after meals can help remove food particles and maintain oral hygiene 3.

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     1

     Oral Health Insights

     01:28:11
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     2

     Xylitol for Oral Health

     01:14:23
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     3

     Oral Health Insights

     01:22:38
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     4

     Tongue Cleaning Insights

     00:52:04

Other suggestions include using baking soda with a soft toothbrush for brushing, which is low on the abrasion scale and effective in removing biofilm from teeth 4.

Huberman Lab