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-test the acute toxicity of mouthwashes exceeds the toxic effect of alcohol. Consumers should be informed about the number and amounts of mouthwash ingredients, and their toxic potential. These declarations would provide the basis for testing the carcinogenic effects of mouthwashes.
