Will I Blow a Violation on My Ignition Interlock from a Dentist Visit?

Will I Blow a Violation on my Ignition Interlock from a Dentist Visit?

Once you need to use an Ignition Interlock, many questions may come to mind about how the device will affect your every-day routine. For example, what happens if you have an Ignition Interlock, but you have a dentist visit coming up soon? Aren’t there some products like mouthwash that could cause a violation in the Ignition Interlock?

Busting the ‘False Positive’ Ignition Interlock Rumor

There’s a lot of rumors about Ignition Interlocks and ‘false positive’ results. Ignition Interlocks require robust, alcohol-specific technology, and state-approved providers must follow rigorous federal standards to provide you their services.

The ‘false positive’ term comes from an Ignition Interlock displaying a violation even when the user did not consume an alcoholic beverage. The fact is, many every-day items we use such as mouthwash have properties like ethanol or menthol, which is alcohol. The device’s purpose is to test for alcohol, so the device will detect this consumed alcohol.

If your Ignition Interlock shows you did not pass your breath test, don’t panic. We have a simple tip for you to use before you provide the follow-up test.

Rinsing Your Mouth with Water Before Each Breath Test

When you visit the dentist, you may come across certain items that could contain alcohol or alcohol properties in them, such as dental tools that have a peppermint or mint flavor, or you are using mouthwash. All you have to do is rinse your mouth with water before testing with your Ignition Interlock. The dissipation rate is quick with consumed alcohol like mouthwash, so you can take your breath test and be on your way. Smart Start recommends swishing your mouth with water before any Ignition Interlock test!

If you have any Ignition Interlock questions, feel free to give our Customer Care Center a call at (800) 831-3299. We’d be happy to assist you and educate you on anything Ignition Interlock-related to alleviate any concerns.

Need an Ignition Interlock?

If you must install an Ignition Interlock, you can trust Smart Start to get you back on the road the quickest. Schedule your installation appointment today by calling (800) 831-3299 or by filling out our online form.