Sorry, I have no idea what the actual problem is
I guess alcohol would work the same way...I'm just in the habit of reaching for my Listerine sprayer whenever I see a "what-the-heck-is-that" situation
If you decide to get Listerine, it's fine to get the store-brand (the real stuff is too expensive) but make sure to get the original color/flavor, not the mint (don't know why
but that's what I've read)