You will find how to pass a mouth swab drug test for weed amongst the most searched items on Google. This is because many employers conduct saliva tests, and passing them is essential for most people. So if you wish to keep your job or are up for a mouth swab test for any other reason, read along to know more about it.

We have mentioned everything from detox products to home remedies to pass a saliva drug test in this article. Be it pot, marijuana, or cannabis; the mouth swab test won't be able to detect any drugs if you follow the guidelines mentioned below.

What Is A Mouth Swab Drug Test?

Before we tell you how to pass a oral swab drug test, let us first discuss what it is? A mouth swab or oral swab test is one of the most common drug tests conducted to detect substance intake. The procedure system of this test is pretty simple. A sample of your saliva is taken through a swab and then analyzed for drug residues.

As most drugs are taken orally, mouth swab can collect their residue. Therefore, any substance taken directly by mouth and even nose can be detected in your saliva for at least 48 hours. This includes smoked marijuana, illicit fentanyl lollipops, edible marijuana, vaped marijuana, smoked methamphetamine, snorted cocaine, and other drugs.

Your saliva can contain any of these if you have consumed them 2-3 days prior. Therefore, even though the detection time is short, this test is still very potent and used by many agencies, especially employers, to test suitable candidates.

How does Mouth Swab Drug Test work?

A strip or swab containing antigen dye is placed in your mouth, which absorbs saliva through a membrane. As the saliva wets the strip, the dyes can detect drug metabolites. If drug residue is present, it will change. The absence of color means that you are drug-free.

The sample is taken from your mouth by scrubbing the swab between the gums in the lower part of the cheek or placing it under the tongue for 2 minutes until sufficient salvia is collected. The initial results return in minutes as substance residues cling to antibodies present in the swab.

If the initial report is positive, the sample is further tested to classify the drug. First, the type of drug is revealed via immunoassay. Then, the results are submitted for gas chromatography and mass spectrometry for further analysis.


Screening cutoff levels by EIA
Drugs of abuse
THCl 4 ng/mL
Tramadol 50 ng/mL
Phencyclidine 10 ng/mL
Oxycodone 40 ng/mL
Opiates (Codeine, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, Morphine) 40 ng/mL
Methamphetamine 50 ng/mL
Methadone 50 ng/mL
Cocaine Metabolite 20 ng/mL
Buprenorphine 5 ng/mL
Benzodiazepines 20 ng/mL
Alcohol 0.25g/dL
Amphetamine 50 ng/mL
Barbiturates 50 ng/mL

These drug cutoffs are based on guidelines published by the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

For most abused substances, the numbers mentioned above are the upper limits. However, even if you do not detox your body, the odds of passing a mouth swab test will be high as oral swab drug test thc detection times are relatively low.

Test Results and What They Indicate?

There can be 3 types of test results:

  • A positive one: You are in trouble if you get a positive on your oral test. It indicates that you recently used drugs in amounts that cross the cutoff limits. It means a failed attempt and can get you fired from work or penalized depending upon circumstances.
  • A negative one: this means you are safe. A negative report indicates that no drugs were detected in your saliva, and you are good to go.
  • An inconclusive result: This means that your saliva is too dilute or insufficient to perform analysis. You will have to go for testing again. Usually, an inconclusive report happens if you failed to salivate sufficiently due to frequent washing of your mouth. It could also occur if you intentionally hold extra fluid in your mouth to thwart the test.

We would advise you not to try end moments tactics for passing tests. Unless you have consumed drugs right before the test, it is unnecessary for you to be worried. Many employers only use a saliva test to detect drugs used on the premises. As the detection window is short, oral swab tests should be of concern for only those using drugs while at work.

Those who have taken drugs a few days prior can use mouthwash and other detox products mentioned below to mask drug use.

Do Employers Use Mouth Swab Drug Tests?

Yes. Be it for pre-employment selection or random drug checks; most employers rely on oral testing to keep their workplaces safe and drug-free. This is because it is the cheapest and also the most convenient form of testing.

Not only are mouth swab tests used at the final stage of selection for employment, but they can also be used randomly even when you are stable in your job. So not only potential employees but current employees should be concerned too, as they can be selected for a surprise oral evaluation.

Which Employers Conduct Oral Drug Tests?

A large number of organizations, including big retailers like Amazon, use mouth swab drug testing. In reality, before applying for any company, you can check their policies to see which test they conduct and at what time.

Usually, drug testing is conducted mainly by employers associated with union agreements or safety-critical companies. These can include but are not limited to transport, energy generation, and the construction industry.

Drug tests are also common in federal employment. For example, federal employees who handle classified information or those in d national security are subject to more rigorous testing as they handle sensitive content.

Mouth swab testing has also seen an increase in law enforcement agencies as their duties include protecting the health, life, property, and safety of others. So people working in such a capacity are tested more often to ensure the well-being of others under them.

On the whole, Employers all across the US are becoming more cautious. So to prevent abuse of substances and maintain the safety, security, and efficiency of their working environment, they are turning towards drug testing.

When Do Employers Use Mouth Swab Drug Tests?

Usually, employers conduct drug tests during Pre-employment. Any organization, before hiring someone, is likely to ensure that the candidate doesn't do drugs, especially before the selection. It is one of the most typical reasons; however, it is not the only one. Here are some other circumstances when your employer can end up testing you:

  • After an accident

Usually, after accidents, employers conduct drug testing so that they can file a report. For example, staff that operates heavy machinery like forklifts, trucks, and vans are tested on the spot for substance use if they are involved in a crash. This is done to determine whether the accident was caused under the influence or due to genuine reason.

  • Shooting at someone

Anyone who uses a weapon is tested for substance use to determine whether they were intoxicated or shooting for a valid reason. This applies to on-duty police officers as well. So even if you shoot in defense, you may be tested for drug usage. Remember using a gun can itself fall under crime, and if it is done under the influence, it can lead to lengthy jail time. However, drug tests in shooting incidents can lead to reduced capacity claims and help with an insanity defense in some cases.

  • Before receiving promotions

When you are being promoted, you may have to undertake a test to ensure that you deserve the new position. This usually depends upon the company's promotion policy.

  • Employees under the Department of Transportation

All those employees who are regulated by the Department of Transportation, such as Truck drivers and those getting their licenses, are drug tested to ensure that they are not under the influence.

  • Suspected drug use

If your behavior and circumstances suggest drug use, you can be called in for a surprise drug test at your workplace. This can also occur if someone informs on you.

  • Returning to duty

Usually, people working in the military or Police get tested when they return to duty. As these jobs are highly sensitive, Police and armed employees tend to get tested more often! Another reason Police and other law enforcement agents tend to get tested more is because they get involved in drug abuse much more often due to the nature of the job.

How Long Does Thc Stay In Your Saliva Drug Test?

As saliva drug test detection times thc are comparatively shorter than urine and blood test, they can only be used to find out if someone has recently consumed a substance. This is because Tetrahydrocannabinol, known as THC, which is found in many drugs, only remains in saliva for a short time. While it can be found in your urine and blood long after consumption, its residue from your mouth is flushed within a day or two.

Here is a table of various drugs and their detection time in saliva as compared to urine and hair:

Substance Detection in saliva Detection period (hours) Detection in urine Detection period (days) Detection in Hair Detection period (days)
Amphetamine (AMP) 5-10 mins after use 72 2­-5 hours after 2-4 5­7 days after use 90
Methamphetamine 5-10 mins after use 72 2­-5 hours after 3-5 5­7 days after use 90
Cocaine 5-10 mins after use 24 2­-5 hours after 2-4 5­7 days after use 90
Opiate and heroin 1 hour after use 7-21 2­-5 hours after 2-4 5­7 days after use 90
Marijuana 1 hour after use 12 2­-5 hours after 15-30 5­7 days after use 90
Phencyclidine (PCP) 24-72 2­-5 hours after 7-14 5­7 days after use 90
Benzodiazepines - 2­-5 hours after 3-7 - -
Ecstasy (MDMA) - 2­-5 hours after 1-3 5­7 days after use 90
Barbiturates (BAR) - 2­-5 hours after 4-7 - -
Methadone (MTD) - 2­-5 hours after 3-5 - -
Oxycodone (OXY) - 2­-5 hours after 2-4 5­7 days after use 90

This data is taken from government-sponsored sources. It should be taken as a general guide as mouth swab drug test detection period may vary depending on factors such as frequency of use, body mass, age, and route of administration.

In short, saliva tests are perfect for on-the-job drug use as many substances, including medications, will appear immediately in your swab sample swab while it will take time to reach the urine and bloodstream.

How Can I Pass A Cotton Swab Drug Test?

Finally, after discussing all there is to know about oral testing, let us now move on to ways to pass this test. As mentioned above, this test is relatively easy to pass if you haven't taken drugs the same day as the test.

You can either pass a mouth swab test using home remedies or by using detox products.

Here are some detox products you can use to pass the test:

Toxin Rid Rescue Wash Mouthwash

Toxin Rid Detox Mouthwash is a specially formulated solution that allows you to remove all detectable drug toxins from your mouth. All you need to do is use it moments before the drug test.

Toxin rid is a well-known brand, so its mouthwash is safe to use. It comes in a tiny 1-ounce bottle, which you can carry to work easily. It is easy to dispose of too.

How to use it:

  1. Use one-third of toxin rid mouth wash
  2. Swish and gargle for 2-3 minutes
  3. Spit it out
  4. Repeat with the reminder of the bottle
  5. Rinse properly
  6. Use breath mints to cover the smell if available

Remember, excessive swishing can lead to inconclusive results. This might raise suspicion, so swish for only 2 minutes.

Stinger Mouthwash

Another popular choice for cleaning your mouth just before the test is 'Stinger Mouthwash' which can be swallowed when done swishing. It is completely harmless as it contains niacin, amino acids, and some sugars. This gives it the advantage of being used instantly without going to a sink for spitting. However, it is more expensive than most mouthwashes.

Detox drinks

Even though these are more effective for urine testing, you can always use these for oral testing. However, as they do not contain creatine, it can lead to a dilute sample leading to inconclusive results. So if you are thinking of using a detox drink, take a creatine supplement with it.

Home remedies to pass mouth swab drug test

Peroxide is an oxidant that can destroy drug residues. It acts as an adulterant and can help you pass an oral drug test. However, it is unlikely to be detected during the test as it is used in many types of mouthwash.

Instruction:

  1. Take a small sip of 3% peroxide mouthwash
  2. Swig it with water
  3. Swish for 1 minute
  4. Spit out
  5. Go ahead, and you have a high chance of passing the drug test

Some companies are even placing hydrogen peroxide inside chewing gum. The whole process is genius, as just before the test, you can pop a piece of gum without anyone noticing. The gum is probably the most convenient and discreet option, but it's not available everywhere.

Also important to note is that hydrogen peroxide only keeps your mouth clear for half an hour. So it is a suitable method for emergencies when you are given no warning. We conclude that the peroxide method is more effective than detox mouth wash and cheap as well. But if you prefer a detox product, go for the Toxin rid or Stinger as they are the safest ones available.

Other home remedies:

If your goal is to pass a drug test in 2 days, you can do it with organic products. If you are lucky enough to know about your test date beforehand, your best bet is to fill your body with fluids and naturally flush all of the metabolites from your system. Here are some authentic home remedies:

  1. Swishing water rigorously around your mouth, then rinsing and repeating frequently.
  2. Chewing on ice as much as possible as it helps in diluting the THC content in your saliva
  3. Eat fatty foods as THC is a fat-soluble substance and will absorb quickly into lipids. So consuming fat before the test can increase the THC absorption rate and remove it from your saliva. However, keep in mind that this might get you off the hook from an oral test but not a blood test, as it increases the amount of THC-COOH stored in the fat cells.
  4. Cranberry juice can be an effective way to clear your mouth as it is an antioxidant. But we wouldn't bank on it unless you have at least a week to detox your body. It does help with the natural excretion of unwanted drugs, but you can't simply rely on it to pass a drug test.
  5. Drinking vinegar has worked for plenty of people, but it is NOT an enjoyable process. It is effective, but we don't recommend it due to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and upset stomach. We don't think your stomach can muster it, nor can you tolerate the acidic taste and pungent smell. All things considered, if you're still thinking of drinking vinegar to pass the test, do your body a favor and find another technique. You will thank us later.
  6. You must have heard about a naturally-growing root called goldenseal helping people pass drug screening. However, we will advise you not to rely on it entirely as it doesn't guarantee passing. Moreover, you wouldn't even know where to look for goldenseal root.

When you already have so many options available, don't try every lame trick you come across and scramble around to health food stores searching for unnameable roots and indigestible products. Instead, if you have ample time, keep washing your mouth and find a good mouthwash if you can.

FAQ

Why can't THC Stay in The Saliva for Long?

Usually, THC appears in your saliva an hour after ingesting. Be it from edible, smoking, or vaping, THC is not digested for a while. But in 48 hours, the residue goes into your bloodstream, and your saliva gets free of it. On the safe side, it is said that 72 hours are required for most forms of THC to get cleared from your mouth as they break down and get digested after that.

However, there are 2 types of THC that can be tested for.

The first one is 9-THC which is the residue in your mouth that remains after smoking weed. It isn't broken down by the liver and takes a few hours to exit the saliva. So it can be detected 1 hour after consumption and for 12 - 13 hours after that.

Another form is THC-COOH. This is the metabolized form and can rarely be detected in oral tests. However, this form remains in your body for 30 hours and is detectable in urine tests.

Can a doctor order a drug test before prescribing medications?

Yes. Before prescribing medicines containing substances such as benzodiazepines or methadone, a doctor can ask you for a drug to ensure you don't have an addiction. The test can also rule out adverse side effects of the prescriptions the physicians intend to prescribe.

What are the Pros and Cons of a Mouth Swab Test?

Even though the oral form of screening is new, but is becoming relatively more popular because of its numerous benefits:

Pros:

  • The mouth swab test is noninvasive, unlike the blood test
  • No need for a medical professional or a particular room
  • Convenient to administer on-site as sample collection is accessible, and no privacy or embarrassment issues are there.
  • Provide instant results in 5–10 minutes
  • Cheaper than a urine test and blood test
  • Mouth tests are difficult to tamper with, and the chances of adulteration or manipulating the sample are minimal.
  • Oral fluid tests are 60% more accurate in detecting opiates, cocaine, and methamphetamine as compared to urine tests
  • The saliva test produces far fewer false-negative results.
  • Oral drug kits are widely available and accessible anywhere and everywhere
  • Perfect for on-duty screening, as they can instantaneously test workers for drug use while at work.
  • It can detect many different kinds of drugs at the same time.

Cons:

  • As its detection period is short, an oral drug test can only detect substances consumed within 24–72 hours before the test.
  • There are no fixed benchmarks for result interpretation as different brands of mouth swab drug test kits have varying measurement criteria.
  • Even though it can detect many types of substances, the oral test is still less reliable for detecting THC than a urine test.

Mouth swab test vs. urine test, which is better?

Both tests have their advantages, but the mouth swab test is more efficient for recent drug use as it takes time for substances to break down and infiltrate the system. So the oral fluid test is practical in such cases as it provides a detection window of approximately 3 days.

However, for long-term usage, urine tests are practical. After being digested by the liver, almost little or no drug residue is left in the mouth, so it cannot be detected via a mouth swab. So for metabolized drugs such as THC-COOH, a urine test is preferable. It can detect cannabis uses for 30 days.

Mouth swab test versus Blood Test, which is better?

Like a urine test, a blood test can detect substance usage for up to 30 days, so it's better for detecting long-term addictions. However, Oral tests have the advantage of being less intrusive and less expensive.

Moreover, blood tests are subject to misuse as blood can capture a lot of information like DNA which can be misused. Blood samples can be used for unlawful purposes and sold like it, which happened in a security breach in 2020 at LabCorp and Quest Diagnostic clients.

Mouth swab test Vs. Hair test, which is better?

Hair tests have the advantage of having the most prolonged detection period of 90 days. But similar to blood samples, hair samples are also intrusive as they can be tested for mitochondrial DNA. Moreover, hair testing is not cheap, and reports can take weeks. While saliva tests only require minutes for detection.

Is it possible to naturally pass mouth swab tests?

As mentioned above, you can use a home remedy to pass oral tests naturally. You can flush residue from your mouth by using a peroxide mouthwash for 60 seconds. This is the simplest and cheapest method to get a negative report. However, if you have time, you can allow your body to detoxify naturally for 3 days and take the test without any worry. Seventy-two hours are more than enough to clear your spit from substances.

What to do in case of a random drug test?

If you have recently taken a substance and are called in for a test, the best thing to do is keep a tiny bottle of hydrogen peroxide or peroxide chewing gums on your work desk. Gargle your mouth with it for a minute before going for a test. You'll have a decent chance of passing it but use it at your own risk.

Federal And State Drug Testing Laws

Before we close the chapter on oral drug testing, let us remind you the federal and state laws regarding tests are changing. They are being relaxed to a certain extent as marijuana is legalized in many states for recreational or medicinal use. But it is essential to know that only weed is decriminalized, and most states have not legalized it completely.

Moreover, even though the policies related to drug testing differ from state to state, the Supreme Court has legalized drug testing as it protects the health and safety of others. Even though drug tests are considered to infringe an employee's privacy, state and federal laws maintain the same stance on it. Therefore, employers are allowed to test their staff for health and safety reasons and to prevent illegal activity in the workplace resulting from drug use.

However, some states have limits regarding how and when drug tests are permissible. The law that revolves around drug testing in The United States is the Drug-free Workplace Act of 1988, and it was designed to target drug abuse in the workplace. It legally permits certain employers like defense, transportation, and aviation to take action against substance use within the workplace. But a written policy should be in place, and employees should be informed of it.

Lastly, the laws keep changing, so you need to keep up to date with news regarding them to ensure that you are on the right side of it.

Final Thoughts

We have provided as much info as we can on oral drug testing. The rest is up to you, and you can use all tips at your discretion. But at least after reading this article, you can breathe a little sigh of relief as saliva tests are pretty easy to pass.

They are the most common type of test used and replace urine testing almost everywhere. This is good news as we have mentioned before that the mouth swab test can even be passed at the last minute.

However, don't rely on advice from Tom, Dick and Harry and always conduct your necessary research before taking any product or remedy. We hope you fully understand all the information supplied and don't interpret any of the tips stated above as any kind of guarantee. We wish you the best of luck with your test!