Yes, it is safe, easy to use, effective and has no contraindications for use as a mild antiseptic mouthrinse.
Clorox bleach (sodium hypochlorite) is one of the most potent antiseptic and disinfective agents against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Sodium hypochlorite occurs naturally in human white blood cells (neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages). This is the way your own body’s immune system cells fight off bad bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Sodium hypochlorite does not evoke allergic reactions, is not carcinogenic, is not mutagenic and has a century long safety record. It has been used since 1732 to treat wounds, is used in hospitals, animal facilities, and in the human drinking water supply for a century.
Sodium hypochlorite has been used in dentistry for more than a century. The ADA has designated dilute sodium hypochlorite solution as a “mild antiseptic mouthrinse” and has no contraindications.
The dilution of regular Clorox bleach (no scents, perfumes added, and not concentrated) is made by adding a little less than 2 teaspoons of bleach to 1 cup (8ozs) of drinking water. Mix gently and swish a mouthful of the mixture for 30 seconds. Spit out the extra and avoid rinsing with water for 30 minutes. This mouthrinse is used 2 times a week.
At this dilution the mouthrinse is cheap, safe, effective, and easy to use. This additional home care technique will help fight gum disease, can reduce tooth sensitivities and alkalizes the mouth.
If you have questions or comments please reply to this blog, call me at 760-729-9050, or write to me by email at obdydds@sbcglobal.net.
“Low cost periodontal therapy” , Jorgen Slots, Periodontology 2000, vol. 60, 21012, pp. 110-137.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
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94 comments. Leave new
I can only find concentrate bleach. What is the mixing ratio?
Hi Shelia,
The recipe for the concentrate bleach(8.25%) is 1 teaspoon of bleach to 2/3 cup of water.
Same routine: Mix gently and swish for 30 seconds and spit out. Do this 2 times a week.
I sell a purer regular bleach(6%) at the office. This brand is only sold to dentists. I like it because it does not have all the detergents, perfumes, softeners, etc…
Most dentists can order this brand (by Vista Dental Products) for you.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I would like to know if this solution will help to whiten your teeth, as I drink coffee and tea and I also take medicines that cause my mouth to dry out. I use Biotene for that, but, because my mouth has gotten so dry at times, it has caused two of my teeth to break, leaving me with dental bills as well as trying to keep my mouth as clean as possible gargling with peroxide to avoid infection. God Bless!
Hi Lorral,
Thanks for taking the time to read our blog.
The bleach solution does tend to lighten teeth and make them less sensitive also.
For dry mouth I recommend an acupuncturist evaluation and treatment.
Have a great new year.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Interesting, because according to this article, rinsing with diluted bleach “may produce a brown-black discoloration of the teeth”:
http://www.rdhmag.com/articles/print/volume-35/issue-6/columns/an-update-on-bleach-swishing.html
Hi Tom,
Thanks for the reply.
I think you are missing the point of the dilute bleach mouthrinse technique. This helpful tip is for killing the gum disease bugs that are the major reason most older patients loss their teeth. The technique allows you to fight the bugs that cause gum disease and cavities easily, safely and cheaply. The technique is not the whiten teeth. The easy to remove stain on the teeth, if it happens, is not pathology, of little consequence and easily removed with a cleaning.
blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi lora!
Have you since any change in whiteness since using this method
Hi, can i buy this sodium hypochlorite from you? Thanks
Arisa,
Yes, I carry the plain 6% solution in my office. It is the professional solution without all the extra ingredients that the store versions some times have in them. Sorry I can not mail these bottles. Any dentist can get the same type of bottles from their dental supply companies.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
My dentist recommended that I use diluted bleach using my Waterpik and special tip for my peridontal problem. Is it safe to use on a daily basis?
Dear Evelyn,
Thanks for the great question.
No, I would not recommend the dilute bleach solution in a water pik every day. At the dilution I recommend, it should be used only 2 times a week. Use some great essential oils and herbal solutions to kill bad bugs on the other days. I like the Dental Herb Company’s products but there are many other products. Always check the results with a microscope check of your gums at the dental office.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Dear Dr Lawrence,
What essential oils do you suggest? Lemon or something else?
Thank you for your time.
Nathalie
Dear Nathalie,
Thanks for the essential oil question.
I recommend essential oils that have some science behind them indicating that they work in the mouth. A short list of the most popular are: Clove, Cinnamon, Lemon, Eucalyptus, Rosemarius, Wintergreen, Thymol, Red Thyme, Lavender, Oregano, Tea Tree (Melaleuca), in addition to many herbs, and oils. Alot of my patients will make their own toothpastes and mouthrinses from these.
Hope this helps.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Love your answers. Helps so much?
Since the diluted bleach solution is so effective in treating the gun disease, why it cannot be used daily? Is this bleach solution also promoting the growth of new gum tissue?
Hi Lorain,
Thanks for the question. Using this dilute bleach daily is not recommended by the dental researchers that developed the technique to help people. The side effects of this effective dilution only needs to be done twice a week. Staining, resistance to the ingredient, and changing the micro flora of the mouth can be side effects of using this technique to often. Stick with an effective toothpaste and irrigation the other days. You will be able to find these on this website’s blogs or my new up-coming Holistic Dental Care book.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Dear Dr Lawrence,
The sodium hypochlorite dilution you suggest seems very high to me.
I have been concerned about this issue and in researching this I came across your blog.
As a mouthwash and tooth brushing aid I have been using a dilution of around 0.1%.
Would you think this seems to be adequate?
Dear Richard,
Thanks reading the blog and leaving a comment.
The dilution ratio was taken from Dr. Jorgen Slots at USC dental school. He gave this ratio during a dental lecture.
It is used only twice a week as a rinse for 30 seconds. Seems to be effective.
I have seen research on 0.05% and 0.25% solution concentrations. The 0.1% dilution you are using is in that range but I would not recommend using it more than twice a week. You can always have a dentist with a phase contrast microscope check your bugs.
Hope this helps. If you need more information you might ask a question of Dr Slots at jslots@usc.edu .
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
My Priodontis does not want me to use this bleach solution, his comment below. I still plan to try your method.
Bleach even diluted can be toxic to deeper gum tissues which is where his bone loss resides. This I do not recommend. When folks have incredible post op pain after a root canal is when bleach exits the root and enters the gum tissues and their faces swell up and experience several days of discomfort.
Hi Rodney,
Thanks for taking the time to read the blog and striving to take better care of your teeth and gums.
The diluted bleach protocol I mentioned has been approved by the ADA, has been taught in the dental schools for years, and bleach has been used in dentistry for many years. Your own body uses this reaction to fight the bad bugs every day in your body. If your Periodontist does not know the science and safety of this product, then I would go to another Periodontist. I prefer herbs and essential oils first but use this product when necessary.
When he brings up the use of similar products in root canals and their misuse, he is comparing two very different dental services.
If you want more information on the use and safety of dilute bleach for gum disease google “sodium hypochlorite, oral rinse, safety, Jurgen Slots DDS, periodontal therapy, or the Periodontology journal. If you have difficulty finding what you want reply back and I can give you the articles to start reading.
P.S. I would go to a dentist that can check your bugs with a phase contrast microscope.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Thanks for the comment Tim.
Sounds like you have great teeth.
Most adults lose their teeth to gum disease not cavities. Gum disease is silent and you won’t feel any pain until it is to late.
I would recommend some dentist do a gum disease bug check for you sometime. I wish you all the best.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi, would this dilution be the same for children as well? I have a 5year old and he like me is horribly cavity prone.
Hi Rachel,
Thanks for reading the blogs.
I do not recommend the bleach protocol for children. It is a treatment for gum disease and kids are not at risk for these bugs until they are older (approx. high school age).
The treatment for cavities is first the lollipops (Lolozs) two to four times a year. This ingredient kills the cavity causing bugs on clean teeth in 5 minutes. Good toothpaste (Closys or Tooth & Gums) immediately after any food or drink, dental cleanings two to four times a year. Many other helps you can find on my website and my up-coming handbook (2017).
Call or write with any questions,
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi, how much Clorax should I put in a 7oz. hand held water pic? The bottle I have says Clorax regular bleach. It lists the active ingredient: sodium hypochlorite – 8.25% and other ingredients (not listed) of 91.75%. Also, should the water be warm? Thank you.
Hi Judy,
Thanks for the question.
The 8.25% solution is the concentrated version. You would use the ratio of 1 teaspoon bleach to 2/3 cup of water in a container then pour 7 ozs of this solution into your hand held water pic. Throw out the rest down the sink. This is only used twice a week. I use warm water in the water pic. Seems to be more comfortable for my teeth.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Dr. It’s so embarrassing and I hate having bad breath. It bothers me so much.
Nothing works for me.,
I do have periodinta disease.
I see a specialist and they xleqn my teeth with baking soda solution.
The bacteria comes back so fast I can’t deal with it. I try oil pulling , I floss , I brush . I gave up cofeee and dairy.
Nothing helps .
I drink so much water .
I’m going to try bleach .
Is there anything else aggressive I can do ?
Hi Cara,
Thanks for taking the time to reply and ask questions.
Sorry to hear you are having problems with bad breath. It is a common problem with adults these days and easy to correct if it is a mouth problem. Remember it can be from the throat, sinuses, GI tract, and some disease complications.
The only way to say that you have gum disease currently is to test for the bugs that cause the problem. I use a free microscope slide and get immediate results and some dentists use expensive DNA tests and get results after a few weeks.
If you have gum disease and they are treating you with baking soda it will not kill the bugs in the gum pockets. Oil pulling will not kill the bugs down in the gum disease pockets. We have known for 70 years that flossing is worthless to kill the gum disease bugs down at the bottom of your periodontal disease pockets. Brushing does not kill the bugs at the bottom of these gum pockets either.
There are many things you can use that kill these bugs and keep them away. The dilute bleach rinse 2 times a week can work. There are essential oils (Wintergreen, Thymol, Eucalyptus, etc.), herbs, Dentiva lozenges, Iodine, Colloidal silver, Under the Gums mouthrinse and irrigant, Colsys toothpaste and mouthrinse, and many others.
Many people have asked me how to take care of their teeth and gums. This is the “Ideal” way to take care of your teeth and gums.
Brush immediately after any carbohydrate food or drink. Start with at least 2 minutes of dry brushing all the surface of the teeth so they are free of any plaque. Brush with Tooth and Gums or Closys toothpaste for at least 4 minutes, at a 45 degree angle and in small circles following the gum curve at least 8 times for each and every tooth, front and back sides. Then floss all the teeth and irrigate with water and something to kill the bad bugs (Under the Gums irrigant, Closys, dilute bleach, etc.) all the areas between the teeth both front and back.Twice a week rinse for 30 seconds and spit out the dilute bleach solution as described in this blog. Use Dentiva lozenges when you are away from the house or can’t brush and irrigate. Optional things to add would be soft pics and tooth picking to clean the teeth surfaces and massage the gums and brushing your tongue periodically.
Try this protocol and get retested by the dentist.
If this does not control the bad breath then it might be the sinuses or other medical symptoms.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A.Lawrence
Hello there just wondering is this solution okay to use if you have fillings? Also would I be able to brush my teeth with this same solution thank you.
Hi Sara,
Thanks for the great question. The dilute bleach solution is safe for people with fillings. It is alkaline, not acidic, and therefore safe for most dental work. I do not recommend brushing your teeth with it. This would be to often and there are much better toothpastes (like Tooth & Gums, or Closys) to use three or more times a day.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Thanks for the response I was hoping to use it to whiten my teeth even if I could do the brush once a month would you recommend that?
Thanks again
Hi Sara,
The dilute bleach formula is safe enough if used once a month for brushing your teeth. The teeth can lighten with the recommended dilute bleach mouthrinse for 30 seconds twice a week. I would still recommend using a toothpaste to kill the bad bugs, that I mentioned before.
Thanks for your continued interest in healthy teeth and gums.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I have thrush. Been on diflucan and nystatin suspension since feb. Just started on Clotrimazole troche today. Would this help kill the thrush? I take a strong probiotic
Hi Jill,
Thanks for visiting the website’s blog.
No, the dilute bleach is not used for yeast infections (thrush) but bacteria. As a natural dentist I would refer patients to a holistic M. D. for treatment of yeast. Like Dr. Shima, Dr. Winkler or a naturopath like Dr. Stengler. All these practitioners you can find on this website’s link page. They would treat the whole person with natural products like: aloe vera gels & powders, herbs, GSE, diet suggestions, probiotics, garlic, etc. I would not start with drugs. Hope this helps. Call or write if you need further help.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Would you recommend an essential oil solution recipe and how to use it? I’m leery about the bleach, as I even use a whole house purifier to remove the chlorine from our water. Is it necessary to use very expensive oils like Young Living, or is there a comparable/reputable company that’s more affordable? I have a temporary bridge involving 6 lower front teeth which fit tightly to the gums with instructions NOT to attempt to clean under them. It will be 3 weeks before the permanent bridge is ready. So far the gums look great after 11 days, but it never hurts to be extra cautious. Thanks!
Hi Maria,
Thanks for taking the time to read our blog.
I recommend Tooth & Gums Irrigant for the irrigator. The second best options are; the Tooth & Gums Tonic, Closys mouthrinse or Grapefruit seed extract (2 drops in the water) if you don’t have mercury fillings. The essential oils work with 2-3 drops in the water but are more expensive. I use the bleach for patients that will not irrigate.
I am surprised the dentist did not recommend Closys rinse around the temporary dental work. Many dentists use this with great results.
Good luck on the permanent bridge.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I have one root canal (& problems) my gums are receded very much & grow plac like crazy I am oil pulling now for 3 wks & see a little tissue growing between my teeth but a long way to go one mercury filling what can I use to fight the plac
Hi Rachel,
Thanks for the email questions. Unfortunately your comments and questions stop without asking the subject of your email.
Gums recede for a variety of reasons some we have control over (bad bugs, inflammation, trauma) others we can’t stop (like aging or crowded teeth, bad bite). I have not found oil pulling effective for my patients. My patients kill the bad bugs (toothpaste, irrigation, mouthrinses) and get good nutrition (to fight chronic inflammation and oxidative stress). Root canalled teeth, mercury fillings and crowns can be harmful to the gums also.
There are numerous blog subjects on this website and in my up-coming dental handbook to help you achieve and maintain optimal health and vitality with a beautiful smile.
I look forward to helping you in the future with questions and concerns.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
can I use concentrated clorox bleach diluted in water pik container and if so what ratio?
Hi Sandra,
I am glad to see you are willing to try the dilute bleach protocol. They are teaching it to all the students at the USC Dental school and have for years.
If you have the 6% bleach solution than the ratio for a water pik system is: 2 teaspoons of bleach to 1/2 cup of water. If all you can find is the concentrated bleach solution than I would use: 1 teaspoon to 2/3 cup of water.
Have the bugs checked to see if it is working by a dentist with a microscope and good luck.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Also wanted to add in addition to using bleach in water pik solution could it be used for whitening teeth when most of teeth are crowns and cannot be whitened any other way. I also have a gold crown from many years ago. How would that be affected using dilute bleach either for whitening or in water pick solution. Thank you
Hi Sandra,
I just saw that you had another comment.
The dilute bleach will lighten your natural teeth some as a side benefit. It will not bleach porcelain crowns and should be ok for gold. At this dilution the solution is a pH of about 8, which can help alkalinize the mouth and make the teeth stronger. Some patient find it helps with sensitive teeth also.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
My teeth seem darker after using the bleach on a regular basis (but my gums are rockin, never bleed anymore) I understand there is browning of your teeth that can occur with regular use of the bleach- can it be lightened like other stains? Is it permanent?? Will whitening strips lighten them?
Hi Carol,
Thanks for the reading the blog and the question.
The dilute bleach solution does not brown your teeth but you may see them lighten after using for awhile.
If the teeth are browning in color it is from other things like foods, drink, supplements, and herbs or teas someone uses.
Teeth can be whitened with many other products but I would stick to dental professional products or Crest and Colgate products.
I wish you the best with your teeth, gums and health.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Will using this ..
Help control periodontal disease..
And how long do i do this for..
Hi Fernando,
Thanks for the question.
The dilute bleach mouthrinse is a very powerful way to fight the bugs that cause gum disease.
I would do it whenever the bad bugs are in your mouth. Start with 4-6 weeks, using it 2 times a week, and than have a dentist check for the bad bugs with a phase-contrast microscope. This microscope shows you immediately if there are bad bugs present and how many there are. The other good habits for fighting gum disease are an effective toothpaste, professional cleanings at the dentist, and a healthy diet.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi is there any good home remedies for periodontal disease besides the surgery where they cut your gums
Hi Toria,
Thanks for the great question.
Its a great time to be in dentistry because we now have so many things to help people care for their teeth and gums at home without the dentist. I can give you a short version but more information can be found on this website’s blogs or my up-coming book.
First of all diet is the most important factor in your dental health. With a clean, natural, alkaline, raw diet you can have no cavities or gum disease. Second most important habit for healthy gums and pocket reduction is a water picking habit with some thing in the water to kill the bud bugs. Third is an effective toothpaste as mentioned many times on the website. Fourthly, a great hygienists customizing your care to your needs.
The extras that can be used are this dilute bleach mouthrinse, tooth picking gum massage, essential oils and herbs, and dentiva lozenges. All these are in prior blogs on the website. The best summary can be found in the “Great Teeth & Gums” blogs or my up-coming dental health care book.
If a dentist is still using gum surgery to cut your gums he/she is 40 years out of date. Our dental school dropped pocket reduction surgery from its program 40 years ago. Their are many non-surgical options available today.
Hope this helps and happy learning about taking care of your self.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I had deep cleaning last year, after years of neglecting my teeth and had 4 teeth pulled. I grow placque like crazy but have been diligent since my 9 hour procedure. I have had my teeth cleaned 3 times since then but today when I went in, they said I had some bleeding. She used a laser (easy) and the mouthwash with bleach. She told me to make it at home, 1 teaspoon bleach to a quart of water. I’m supposed to use it once a day plus brush with CTx4 Gel 5000. If that doesn’t work, she said a DNA test might be needed to find out exactly what kind of bacteria we are dealing with. Oh my! The once a day rinse is a lot more than your twice a week method.
Hi Tina,
Thanks for reading the blog. I don’t see a question in your reply.
If you are asking me about the use of the dilute bleach solution your dentist is recommending; then the dilution ratio the dentist is telling you to use is more dilute than I have seen in the literature. Therefore I don’t know if it will work or not. The dilution I recommend is 1 teaspoon of 8.25% bleach in 2/3 water. I only have the patient use this for 30 seconds and only twice a week.
The bleeding in your gums can be from gum disease bugs, low vitamin C, or other chronic inflammation causes.
I am a holistic dentist therefore I would get rid of the bad bugs with essential oils and herbs (Dentiva lozenges, T&G toothpaste and irrigant, Vitamin C, CoQ10, etc…). I do not use poisons such as the CTx4 5000 toothpaste you mentioned. You can control bad bugs with your diet also.
Most of this information will be in my up-coming book or elsewhere on this website.
A dentist needs a phase contrast microscope or microbiological testing to know if the bad bugs are present and when they are gone. Health gums usually comes down to only 4 things: effective toothpaste, irrigating with medicinal solutions, professional cleanings, and diet. All these topics are in the blogs of this website.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Could bleach rinse kill Oral HPV?
Hi Tanya,
I don’t know of any trials where HPV was tested against the dilute bleach mouthrinse.
It is harder to kill viruses than bacteria.
Rev. Stephen A. Lawrence
Question. I understand that you recommend only using a bleach solution for the water pick and/or gargling twice a week. Other than brushing your teeth Daily regularly with your recommended toothpaste (Tooth & Gums, or Closys), what do you suggest for Daily mouthwash and water pik?
Hi Ken,
Thanks for the question.
I recommend 4 things to take care of your teeth and gums. I have these blogs already posted on this website if you want further information. The 4 steps are effective tooth brushing (as you mentioned), water piking with some thing to kill the bad bugs and leave the good bugs alone, professional cleanings based on the patient’s needs, and optimal diet and balance (which I will detailed in my new book coming out next year). Mainly food based on your body type, balanced to keep you in the zone, detox regularly, avoiding the standard American diet. I also get into the emotional and spiritual balance in the up-coming book.
Blessings, Rev. Dr.. Stephen A. Lawrence
Chlorohexedine Gluconate 0.12% vs Dilute bleach solution. Now bleach is a lot less expensive and may whiten the teeth a little bit, but is Chlorohexedine more effective at killing germs that cause periodontal disease? Which would you choose ?
Hi Alex,
Thanks for the great question. I always choose the less toxic materials and products for my patients. Since the chemical reaction in the dilute bleach reaction is the same as the body’s own white blood cells way to fight bacteria, I would choose this over chlorhexidine. I do not care for the adverse reactions of chlorhexidine; such as, anaphylactic shack, angioedema, gingival hyperplasia, hypertension, stomatitis, erythema, glossitis, oral ulcerations, staining, taste disruption, dental pain, headaches, gingivitis,etc. I also want a product that will kill the bad bacteria and leave the good bacteria alone. Dilute bleach does this, chlorhexidine does not. Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi Ron,
The experiments got great results with one mouthful, for 30 seconds twice a week.
I would not use it any more then this.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi Rev. Dr. Lawrence.
I’ve gone to two Periodontists. Both say remove all my teeth.
I overwhelmingly disagree with them. I do have bone loss, but want to stop it from growing and reduce as much as possible.
I have my 3D exray. Looking for alternatives. Plus, I have faith.
Appreciative of advice or right direction.
DeAnna
Hi DeAnna,
Thanks for reading the blog. I love the questions people send and applaud you for the motivation to take positive control of your health.
My own father and patients in my practice have come to me with 2/3 of the bone lost on most of their teeth and were told the same thing. There are many tips and tools patient can use to improve their teeth and gums and this is an amazing time to be in the holistic dental field. Sharing the many things available to patients is why I wrote my new book. It should be very helpful for everyone when it comes out this year.
A diagnosis and treatment plan for you specifically can only be made with a comprehensive examination, clinically acceptable X-rays and education of the patient to take charge of their own health. A short summery of this website and my book would be: balance of your body, mind and spirit, effective tooth brushing and irrigating, professional cleanings, and a healthy diet and environment. All of these things can be found on this website’s blogs. If you have specific questions I am always here for you.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi Rev. Dr. Lawrence,
I have occasion pain, on and off, on my upper molars. I am think bacteria is causing this. Will rising with bleach solution eliminate the pain?
Hi Thuan,
Thanks for the question.
The dilute bleach mouthrinse technique is not meant for pain relief. It is to eliminate the bugs that cause gum disease and help with the bugs that cause cavities. You would have to find the reason you have pain and address that cause. A holistic dentist can help you with this.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Thanks for all the helpful information on here.
Was curious if there’s any benefit to using the “diluted bleach solution” over something like “closys” (which contains stabilized chlorine dioxide)?
I am in the market for a new mouthwash for limiting VSC’s/bacteria/biofilms.
The diluted bleach solution as said, is to be used 2x a week, whereas closys says theirs can be used up to 2x a day. Is the bleach solution used less because the concentration in higher? Sorry if the answers have already been said, I tried to CTRL+F and not much came up.
Hi Keven,
These two products are used for different purposes. The dilute bleach solution is used to fight gum disease bugs and the studies indicate not to use it more than twice a week. It is not a mouthrinse.
Closys mouthrinse is made to be used everyday and will effectively break down the sulfur double bonds of chemicals that cause bad breath. I would use this closys product every day for a mouthrinse.
Put in key words in the search box to find any related blog.
I am always here by email to try to answer your questions.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I’ve been using diluted household bleach at times (one eye-dropperful of regular bleach to ~6 oz warm water) to freshen my breath because I have post nasal drip which tends to cause bad breath. It works great on the infrequent occasions that I use it – never had such fresh breath! – but I worry that killing off the natural oral flora along with the bad stuff will cause a biotic imbalance and make room for really bad bugs to take up residence. Have you seen this as a problem and, if so, is there a way to fix it? Thanks for all the good info on your blog!
Hi David,
Thanks for reading the blogs and commenting.
The dilute bleach mouthrinse was designed and researched as a mouthrinse to kill the bad bugs and leave the good bugs alone. It is designed to use at the most twice a week.
Your post nasal drip could be better treated with “Xlear nasal care spray”. It is designed to be sprayed right into the nose. I add one drop (and only one drop) of the essential oil peppermint to the spray bottle and it “supercharges” the effect. It flushes out the bugs with natural saline and xylitol. The peppermint opens up the nose to breath easier. You should try it!
The bad bugs are also killed in the mouth with an effective toothpaste (Tooth & Gums or Closys).
I wish you all the best,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I used your solution on a abscess and it has helped a lot. I just rubbed the sore with a q-tip and the swelling went way down. I think this really does work.
Hi Kay,
I am glad you got good results with the dilute bleach mouthrinse. This would be a off label way to use it.
The cause of the abscess should be found because usually the cause is much deeper than the bleach could reach.
I wish you all the best,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Thank yu Doctor Lawrence, I can’t thank yu enough! I know that this treament works. I Was on a job where the room temperature was unbeleive. My arm and teeth started to hurt. I thought I would have to go to the hospital. Left job came home and tried to find a dentist. None of course so I research clorax. I must have bought a dozen store bought products. Useless and I was in alot of pain. I am going to use this solution as I feel my teeth clean and trying the recommened use plus tooth paste. Thank yu AGAIN Dalia
Dalia,
Glad to help. There is alot more helpful tips and tools you can use to help yourself in the blog section of my website. My new book also comes out in the fall to help patients take care of themselves. Write me if I can help in any other way.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hi
I have been using this solution for over a year now. The only thing is I use it daily to remove bad breath and a yellow coating on my tongue. I find if I skip a day a thick white coating on my tongue gets formed along with a weird feeling. I was diagnosed with Ameloblastoma in 2016 and finally got it removed on June 2017. I always thought this benign tumor was the cause of bad breath but now it’s removed and still have very bad breath.
Dear Ellie,
The dilute recipe is not recommended for every day use. It will change the bug population in your mouth and has side effects when used this much. The bad breath can be from many causes, dental and medical. The dental causes all revolve around 4 bugs that make sulfur compounds. These are the 4 of the 30 or so that cause gum disease. Use an effective toothpaste like Closys with its matching mouthrinse is effectively to get rid of the dental reasons for bad breath. The medical reasons would have to be diagnosed by an M.D. and treated.
Thanks so much for following the website’s blogs.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Thank you Doctor
It’s greatly appreciated!
Hi! How do you make a 0.05% dilution for 2/daily rinse from 3% Na hypochlorite (RC irrigant)? Thank you
Sangeeta,
Thanks for the question but it over my head. It has been 40 years since my chemistry courses.
I’m sure a chemistry professor or Dr. Slots at the USC Dental School could figure it out. I am a simple man and just use the 6% solution I sell or the 8% solution in the store and the recipes I gave to make the solution.
Sorry I could not help.
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Top part of my right molar tooth has broken off.In severe pain. Absolutely no money for dentist Took Aleve .Also trying clorox method.1/3 juice glass with water,dipped my finger in bleach swished finger in the water. Swigged into mouth. It stings.Hope I dont get sent to E.R.
Dear Jennifer,
Sorry to hear you are having teeth problems. You need to see a dentist to find out what is going on and help you fix it. If money is a problem, there are many charity clinics and low cost clinics in the country. Your local dental society should be able to direct you to one. Some churches also have resources and referrals to charity clinics.
God’s blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
About 6 years ago I was told I needed three crowns, one of them also needing a root canal. Not knowing any better, I had the procedures done. In 2014 I started getting enlarged taste buds on the back of my tongue. Then a coating in mainly the center of my tongue that is now hairy tongue. Meanwhile, the root canal tooth got infected and had to be pulled. The other two crowns never seemed to be right and now I have gum loss on all of my teeth. I have been to several dentists who all say it’s harmless and there is nothing that can be done. I don’t agree. I read your blog about a bleach rinse and wonder if that might help. I am wondering if the crowns that remain weren’t installed correctly, could they be the cause of bacteria growth festering under them, in turn causing these problems? Until I had these procedures done, I never had any gum or mouth issues of any kind! Thank you so much for your help on this.
Kathy,
Sorry to hear about the history of all your dental problems. Your teeth and gum problems seem to be to complex for an easy solution like the dilute bleach solutions. Although it is a great tool, it does not do everything. You need to find a holistic dentist that can diagnosis your conditions, find solutions and possibly work with holistic health care practitioners to guide you back to a place of optimal health and vitality. I good stating point would be the IAOMT.org, IABDM.org, Holisticdental.org, and acam.org websites. Search for a nearby practitioner that can make a holistic plan for you and gets you back to full health.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hello Dr. Lawrence,
I bought a bottle of full strength Dakin’s Solution (made by Century Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) because I thought it would be more convenient than making a diluted bleach mixture at home. The full strength is 0.50% sodium hypochlorite. Is this too strong to use 2x/week? I have not been diagnosed with periodontal disease, I just want to have a healthy, fresh-smelling mouth.
Dear Pearl,
The Dakin’s solution is labeled for external use only. It is the wound disinfection and healing not in the mouth.
The 0.5% solution is far to weak to be equal to the 6% or 8% solution in the dilute bleach recipe recommendations. I would stay with the 6% or 8% solutions as listed in the recipes for effectiveness. They are not used for breath freshening but to kill the bad bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. If you want a solutions for bad breath the Colsys toothpaste and mouthrinse would be a better option.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Will the Clorox solution have an adverse affect on my chipped tooth? I noticed it seemed red after I used this treatment
Hi Effie,
The dilute bleach does not cause redness on teeth.
The solution should not hurt teeth with small chips but larger chips would depend on how deep the chip is into dentin.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Is the dilute bleach solution safe to use with full set of porcelain veneers? Thank you in advance for your help.
Dear Amanda,
The dilute bleach protocol is safe for most porcelain veneers and their cements. The veneers will not change color as your teeth do but may lighten because the tooth structure behind the veneer may lighten and the veneers are very thin and translucent.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
What is the mouthwash ratio for 6% concentrated bleach?
Dear Neil,
Use 2 teaspoons of 6% bleach in 1 cup of water. Rinse for 30 seconds and spit out.
The routine should be done only twice a week.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I was told to use 3 drops of 28% sodium chloride solution…….. with 3 drops of 50% citric acid solution .combine them and wait 3 minutes for it to turn amber color then mix with 1 cup of water then with a bottle irrigator irrigate the gums then swish and spit 3 x’s a day to get rid of periodontal disease. Is this better than the “diluted bleach protocol”? Or the bleach better? Yours seems a lot less problem to get an 87 yr. old to do or me to do it for him who doesn’t want to brush his teeth/partials any way…..the dentist said to do the surgery cutting thing but my friend said to do this…..what would you suggest?
Hi Tammy,
The dilute bleach rinse is much easier. The two technique have never been tested side by side.
Gum Surgery to reduce pockets has been proven to be useless for 40 years. There are much better ways to shorten pockets now.
Get my up-coming new book, “Holistic Dental Care” to have all the tools you need to treat your dental health problems your self.
Blessings to you and your husband,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
Hello! I have two implants on teeth 8 and 9 that are about 4 years old. I had bad breath about a year ago and my dentist said it was the beginning stages of peri-implantitis, and did the laser therapy. That worked but I saw pretty significant gum recession behind the teeth (thankfully nothing noticeable in the front!) but now the bad breath is back. My question is, since the post is somewhat (barely) exposed from behind, would this bleach rinse or with my water pik help treat that infection? The bone loss at my last comprehensive exam (laser) was extremely minimal, Dentist was not worried) I’m just dreading having to have these implants removed, I don’t think I would do them again. I’m 30 years old. Thank you for your time!!
Hi Sarah,
Thanks for taking the time to ask a website blog question.
Although the risks of dental implants have been given in other blogs, I will only address your immediate concerns of bad breath.
Most dental reasons for bad breath originate in 4 bad bugs that also are associated with gum disease. If your dentist has a phase contrast microscope he or she could show you the bugs in your mouth. They are contagious and you get them from other people.
These gum disease bugs are relatively easy to kill. I use Closys tooth paste, Closys mouthrinse and water piking with Under the Gums irrigant. The patients with implants and bad bugs are usually taken care of with 3 month recall cleanings at the office, and your nutrition has alot to do with what bugs you have in your mouth. All of these information you can find on other blogs, on this website, or in my new holistic dental care book, coming out in September.
Bleach I usually use for patients that will not water pik. The dilute bleach mouthrinse and water piking are usually only done twice a week.
Lasers are an excellent and safe way to kill these bugs in the mouth. The dentist can always check your progress with his or her microscope.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
My teeth are very healthy but as alot of middle aged people I am suffering from severe gum disease. Had visit with peridontist who has suggested surgery but I just can’t afford it; even with insurance. Was told by my hygienist about the bleach method; my dentist does not want them telling people this but I’m willing to give it a shot. She also said she heard there was evidence of bone regeneration. I don’t know how true that is but was wondering if that could be a possibility if the gum disease was minimized greatly? That would be amazing if it could happen.
Dear Virginia,
Thanks for the blog questions.
Most people over a certain age don’t get cavities but can lose their teeth from gum disease.
I teach patients that they can obtain and maintain health teeth and gums for a lifetime with easy home tools and tips.
Some of these tools and tips I have in the blogs of this website, i.e. effective tooth brushing with Tooth and Gums paste, water piking with Under the Gums irrigant (until the bugs are gone), professional cleaning at the dental office and your balanced diet and immune system.
The dilute bleach has been researched and taught by dental schools for years. USC dental school emphasizes it to their patients with gum disease.
I have heard many good side effects and benefits from it but have not heard of bone regeneration. Getting rid of the bad bugs certainly would help the body make strong bone of what is left.
Look for all the great tools and tips that help you take care of yourself in my new book, Holistic Dental Care, coming this September.
Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Stephen A. Lawrence
I found this page because i was looking for a solution for tooth pain. My insurance only covers 50% for extractions and im extremely terrified of the dentist because of past horrible experiences. I tried the bleach rinse and got some relief instantly and over the course of about 2hours continued to get more and more relief. I know the solution os not a fix but it helped my tooth pain. Thank you and wish you were closer maybe i would actually see a dentist more often because you seem to truly be a concerned dentist on this forum even though these people arent your patients you continue to answer questions. Thank you!
Hello, I was just recommended to use this technique due to alot of buid up and very sensitive teeth during my cleanings. I was told I have so much sensitivity due to recession. I’m already going in every 3 months to avoid so much buid up, using sensodyne sensitivity toothpaste, and water pick daily. I’m doing all I can but every time I visit the dentist I’m just so miserable and hear how much buid up I still have. I did not hear my hygienist to convinced it would help my problem so thougth I would do some research.
Thank you,
Hey there,
About 6 months ago our office had a hygienist from our local periodontist come in. What they recommend for peri-implantitis and stubborn pockets that have been stuck at 5+ is to sub gingivally irrigate in-office a 30% solution to the localized sites experiencing a hard time budging. They then recommend an 8% solution for at-home use to irrigate with a waterpick (which we warn patients will break the waterpick down faster but most don’t care if it’s going to help stabilize) or a syringe we supply them with 2x/day for 6 weeks. What are your thoughts on this? She presented us with studies but we have since lost the paper and I cannot find any info online. I have patients who are weary of any diluted bleach solution in their mouth period so we are working on a patient information sheet about it and I am finding a lot of your facts helpful and am citing it along with your original works cited. Thank you!
Carlie Bond, RDH