Using a common antibacterial mouthwash for a week can lower nitrite levels in saliva, which might make it easier for tooth decay to develop.

Scientific Claim

Chlorhexidine mouthwash (0.2%) significantly reduces salivary nitrite levels by approximately 15% in healthy adults after 7 days of use, which may contribute to oral health deterioration.

Original Statement

“After treatment, a reduction in pH (p = 0.005), nitrite (p = 0.006), buffering capacity (p = 0.004) and ammonia levels (p < 0.001) was observed in the CHX-M group (Figure 1).”

From study:The comparative effect of propolis and chlorhexidine mouthwash on oral nitrite-producing bacteria and blood pressure regulation

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

definitive

Can make definitive causal claims

Assessment Explanation

This is a randomized controlled trial with direct measurement of salivary nitrite levels before and after intervention. The p-value of 0.006 indicates statistical significance, supporting definitive language for this specific quantitative finding.

More Accurate Statement

“Chlorhexidine mouthwash (0.2%) significantly reduces salivary nitrite levels in healthy adults after 7 days of use, which may contribute to oral health deterioration.”

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

The comparative effect of propolis and chlorhexidine mouthwash on oral nitrite-producing bacteria and blood pressure regulation

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human

2025

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

The comparative effect of propolis and chlorhexidine mouthwash on oral nitrite-producing bacteria and blood pressure regulation

Score: 67

DOI: 10.1080/20002297.2024.2439636

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Using a common antibacterial mouthwash for a week can lower ammonia levels in saliva, which might make it harder for the mouth to maintain a healthy environment.

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