Mouthwash may harm good bacteria – new study to test which ones are safe

NCT ID NCT07356271

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Plymouth Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study will test several over-the-counter mouthwashes to see how they affect the balance of bacteria in the mouth and whether they influence heart health. Researchers will recruit 200 adults with or without gum disease from dental clinics and a university campus. The goal is to find out which mouthwashes effectively reduce plaque without disrupting the oral microbiome.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: mouthwashes (chlorhexidine, CPC, hydrogen peroxide, essential oils)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could help identify which mouthwashes are safe for daily use without harming healthy oral bacteria, and may point to links between mouthwash use and heart health.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small study (200 people) that hasn't started yet. It only looks at effects in the short term, and results may not apply to everyone, especially those with health conditions like diabetes or hypertension.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

gingivitis hypertensive disorder periodontitis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HYPERTENSION ORAL MICROBIOME AND CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

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