Is alcohol needed in mouthwash to kill germs?
No. In alcohol-containing mouthwashes, alcohol is not even the active ingredient; it is simply required to stabilize the formula. At high concentrations, alcohol has been reported to contribute to dry mouth, which can worsen bad breath and the growth of more germs. Crest Pro-Health Rinse’s alcohol-free formula is a win for millions of consumers who may want to avoid alcohol-based products, but who want to enjoy the health benefits of mouthwash. • The alcohol-free formula also means that the product is easier to use for the recommended 30 seconds twice daily. • If the product is not used for the full 30 seconds, users will not realize the full benefit.