Which mouthwash should you use? Which mouthwash fights decay? Plaque? Bacteria? Bad Breath?

In my opinion, most mouthwashes should be considered “mouth deodorants“, not therapeutic rinses.

Yesterday the FDA echoed what I have said for years:

September 28, 2010 — The FDA today issued warning letters to three companies — Johnson & Johnson, CVS, and Walgreen — that manufacture and market mouthwash products with claims that these products remove plaque above the gum line or promote healthy gums.

This statement was overdue, but better late than never. A few years ago Listerine had to stop advertising that its mouthwash was as good as flossing (do you remember all those ads?). Now these companies can not claim plaque removal either. Mouthwash is simply a liquid, not much more. Most mouthwashes are not much more effective than water!

Here is a list of things you need to know about mouthwash:

1. PH: Is your mouthwash neutral or acidic?

2. Preservatives: Is your mouthwash preserved or natural? Preservatives are chemicals, and chemicals are not good for your mouth. In general, if it has a shelf life then it has to be preserved.

3. Ingredients: If you can spell it or pronounce it, then it probably should not be in your mouth 🙂

A Sea Salt and Xylitol Mouthwash is best for my patients. This, in my opinion, is the healthiest and most effective mouthwash available. 

Keep Smiling.