Listerine or a flouride rinse?!
Question:
Listerine or a flouride rinse?
Currently, I use both, but I wonder if I had to choose between them, is Listerine more effective to keep my mouth clean and cavity-free than Act or Colgate Flouride rinse? Or vice versa?
Answers:
Earlier reply about fluoride in water is incorrect. That fluoride in water is absorbed into the body and only works on teeth that are developing. It's not for adults. The only way fluoride can enter teeth already erupted is through fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash like ACT, or topically applied at the dentist. Listerine is good for killing mouth bacteria but is essentially good only for gum disease. If you floss and brush you should not have a problem with bad breath unless you eat garlic or onions [that smell comes out of your lungs], or have some systemic problem. So, if you are concerned about cavities go with the fluoride mouth rinse [but if you have had little or no cavities in the past, this is probably a waste] if you have or are concerned with gum disease go with the Listerine. Hope this helps.