In vitro toxicity assessment of mouthwashes in the pollen tube growth test: First results

Mouthwashes are widespread used to treat halitosis or minor oral infections . Adverse effects of mouthwashes were recognized, e.g. desquamation of the oral mucosa and stomatitis. The acute toxicity of mouthwashes was tested in an in vitro system, the pollen tube growth test (PTG-test). In the PTG-tes t the acute toxicity of mouthwashes exceeds the toxic effect of alcohol. Co nsumers should be informed about the number and amounts of mouthwash ingred ients, and their toxic potential. These declarations would provide the basi s for testing the carcinogenic effects of mouthwashes.