Bleach as an Oral Rinse
The most effective agent to kill bacteria, viruses, fungi and spores is common household bleach. Used in a solution highly-diluted with water, It can be used as an oral rinse (mouthwash} or in a water irrigator {Water Pick or Air Floss devices} when deeper pockets are present. Your dentist can advise which is better for you.
Since bleach is corrosive it should always be used with caution. Do NOT swallow any of the solution and AVOID eye-contact. If swallowed immediately call your poison control center . If you inadvertedly get some of the solution in your eye immediately rinse your eye with copious amounts of water before contacting your physician.
Bleach (even in this dilute a solution) is strong enough to cause permanent damage to garments, rugs, towels,etc.This is especially true with the spatter that occurs when used with a water irrigator.
Old-fashion household bleach contains as its active ingredient sodium hypochlorite (NaClO). Use only plain bleach. New or improved bleaches contain additives that may be very harmful. Be sure and check the product label.. The proper dilution is 1 teaspoon to 4 ounces of water {½ glass} If you use a water irrigator use two teaspoons of bleach and a full glass of water {8 ounces} to get an adequate volume of solution. Rinse for 30 seconds . Then clean your tongue (See Importance of Cleaning Your Tongue) before rinsing with plain water. Rinsing two to three times a week is all that is necessary. Since the long term effect of this solution on tissues has not been determined It should not be used over 2-3 weeks. While commercially available mouthwashes kill only about 50% of bacteria this solution kills 99%.
These comments are for “information only” and should only be followed after consultation with your dentist.
Bleach as a Personal Hygiene Agent
With current concerns about the potential for public transmission of viruses such as Ebola or Enterovirus D68, carrying and using bleach in this concentration for hand washing after using public facilities might be considered.
Since there is a dramatic rise in the incidence of oral cancer due HVP (Human Papallomavirus) having both parties rinse before AND after sexual activity might be considered.