Listerine has been a popular mouthwash for decades. In 1914, it was the first mouthwash to be sold over-the-counter. It was named after Dr. Joseph Lister, who was one of the first to use disinfectants in rooms and instruments during surgery. Many of the patients I have met and treated continue to use Listerine despite the burning sensation they receive from the contents of the wash (particularly its high alcohol percentage).
The unfortunate thing is that it is still questionable as to whether mouthwashes actually disinfect (i.e. kill bacteria). However, we do know that most dental diseases are caused by plaque. Our oral hygiene goals should be aimed towards removing the plaque. And based upon studies, brushing and flossing are still the most effective means of achieving a healthy mouth1.
Mouthwashes do have a purpose though. They can aid in bringing oxygen into crevices that cannot be reached by brushing and flossing, which can definitely help heal gum inflammation/disease. With that said, it's important to take a second look at what's in your mouthwash, especially those with alcohol. Alcohol may help in killing bacteria, but it has a drying effect on the mouth which can promote bacteria growth and bad breath. That's right, your mouthwash may cause bad breath!
With that in mind, I am always promoting alcohol-free mouth washes to patients and their families (especially the ones with fluoride in it). Needless to say, I was very excited when Listerine came out with their new product: Listerine Zero. There are many other kinds of mouthwashes without alcohol; search for the one that's right for you.
"But...what about my bad breath?", you might ask. Well, studies have shown that mouthwashes that contain antibacterial agents such as chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride have the ability of reducing levels of bad-breath-causing bacteria on the tongue2. But be careful with these rinses since they often cause staining on teeth that can only be removed with a dental office cleaning.
That's probably more than you'll ever want to know about mouthwashes, so I'll leave it at that. Remember to look for alcohol-free, fluoridated mouthwashes the next time you pick up some rinse. As always, please contact me or your dentist with any questions you might have.
Happy swishing,
Dr. Lynda Tran
1 Haps, S., Slot, DE., Berchier, CE., Van der Weijden, GA.. The effect of cetylpyridinium chloride-containing mouth rinses as adjuncts to toothbrushing on plaque and parameters of gingival inflammation: a systematic review. Int J Dent Hyg. 2008 Nov; 6(4): 290-303.
2 Kumar, S., Byrne, G.. Some evidence shows that certain mouthrinses can reduce halitosis. Journal of American Dental Association. 2010 Aug; 141:1008-1009.
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