When You Swallow Mouthwash, This Is What Happens To Your Body

Mouthwash is, in essence, a double-edged sword. It kills the bacteria in your mouth that can be harmful to your teeth and gums and can prevent you from getting mouth diseases, but it can also be toxic if you consume too much of it (via Healthline). It's okay to ingest it in small quantities, but if you're swallowing entire mouthfuls at a time, you may want to seek professional help since it can be toxic to the body. This, of course, depends on each individual mouthwash's ingredients, so you should always know what is in your bottle.

According to Healthline, some side effects of ingesting mouthwash can include dizziness, an upset stomach, and drowsiness, as well as an intoxicating effect due to the alcohol in it. Solomon Wright, a dentist, adds that diarrhea can occur as well, but notes that any side effects shouldn't last more than a few days. Children's bodies are more susceptible to these side effects, so medical attention is warranted if a child swallows mouthwash. Adults can handle more but still need to be wary. Swallowing too much can lead to the need for IV fluid and medication (via Healthline).