Listerine Mouthwash - An Enigma

Listerine was initially used in 1879 as an antiseptic in surgery though it was also marketed as a mouthwash and as a treatment to gonorrhea. But, it blossomed as a top draw mouthwash since 1914. It had never looked back and ruled the market in its sphere. It also has achieved the coveted approval of American Dental Association in its stride and is the top selling brand all over the world.

Listerine mouthwash is now available in different flavors viz. mint variants, citrus flavored, contain ingredients for tartar control and tooth whitening formulations. Around 2005, Listerine spray bottles appeared in the market which was very handy to carry. Formal testing supported the claim that it effectively kills oral bacteria, reduces built up of plaque and prevents gingivitis. It is a top product in its class to stop bad breath.

Listerine’s active ingredients consist of thymol, eucalyptol, methyl salicilate and menthol. It does not contain chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, chlorine dioxide and other chemicals which other brand of mouthwash use it may concern some but it contains alcohol, which is an inactive ingredient

The alcohol in Listerine dissolves other ingredients and aids penetration of oral plaque on the teeth. Alcohol, however, dries out the tissues of the mouth. Drying of saliva in the mouth is not advisable since saliva is one natural defense against bacterial overgrowth which causes bad breath. Many who believes that a dry mouth is a malodorous mouth, advocates that you stay off from mouthwashes that contain alcohol. That way Listerine spray which one carries in his pocket and sprays the mouth several times a day ( not rinsing or brushing ) can certainly have drying effect . With alcoholic mouth wash and driving may lead you for a breathalyzer test.

Alcohol content which is a valid one, Listerine mouthwash works for many. But it is a trusted one. If you do not want anything alcoholic, go for non-alcoholic mouthwash which is also available.