As a dentist, much of my time is spent dealing with the effects of two oral diseases: caries (cavities) and gingivitis/periodontitis (gum disease). Each of these conditions have the potential to cause sensitivity, pain, and tooth loss. As a result, patients who are prone to cavities or gum disease spend time and money on fillings, crowns, root canals, implants, dentures, and other treatments that could have been avoided. The good news is that there are ways to prevent these diseases from taking hold. Most of us know the benefits of brushing and flossing our teeth daily, but some of us need additional help to keep our mouths healthy, and one of these additional tools is mouthwash. In many cases an over-the-counter mouthwash is sufficient, although there are instances where a prescription mouthwash is needed. It’s important to note that not all over-the-counter mouthwashes are effective, and some have specific uses. For many of my cavity-prone patients I recommend Listerine Total Care. There are a couple of reasons why I like this product for my patients.
Fluoride, the Cavity Fighter
As a dentist, I can’t stress enough the importance of fluoride in maintaining a healthy smile. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a crucial role in oral health. It strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to the corrosive effects of acids produced by bacteria in our mouths. These acids are the main culprits behind cavity formation.
Listerine Total Care’s inclusion of fluoride is a game-changer. When you rinse with this mouthwash, you’re not just getting rid of bad breath; you’re actively fighting against cavities. Fluoride helps to remineralize the affected tooth structure before cavities can even take root, preventing the need for more invasive treatments like fillings, crowns, or root canals.
Moreover, fluoride helps maintain the integrity of the natural tooth when it interacts with fillings or crowns. This is especially important because “recurrent decay” at these interfaces is a common issue. By using Listerine Total Care regularly, you’re taking proactive steps to ensure the longevity of your dental work.
Beyond Cavity Prevention
Listerine Total Care doesn’t stop at cavity prevention; it offers a comprehensive approach to oral health. Its anti-plaque and anti-calculus (tartar) properties are a big win for gum health. By reducing the buildup of plaque and tartar around the gums, this mouthwash helps stave off gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
Gingivitis, if left untreated, can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss, receding gums, and even systemic health issues if the infection spreads. Preventing gingivitis is a critical step in maintaining healthy gums and overall well-being.
Ease of Use and Convenience
One of the aspects I love about recommending Listerine Total Care is its simplicity. Incorporating it into your daily oral care routine is effortless. Just swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing, and you’re done. This short investment of time can have long-term benefits for your oral health.
What’s Right For You?
As a dentist who genuinely cares about my patients’ oral health and well-being, I can confidently recommend Listerine Total Care as an effective tool in preventing cavities and gum disease. Its fluoride content, anti-plaque, and anti-calculus properties make it a well-rounded mouthwash that can benefit many individuals.
Remember that while mouthwash is an essential part of your oral care regimen, it should complement, not replace, regular brushing and flossing. Maintaining a consistent routine of good oral hygiene practices, coupled with the use of a reliable mouthwash like Listerine Total Care, can help you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come. Before you start using Listerine, schedule an appointment with the team at White Oak Family Dental in Downers Grove. We can examine your teeth and gums and discuss whether you should add a mouthwash like Listerine Total Care to your oral health care regimen. Take the proactive step today to safeguard your oral health and reduce the risk of painful and costly dental procedures down the road. Your smile will thank you!
For more information:
- Zero D et al. The remineralizing effect of an essential oil fluoride mouth rinse in an intraoral caries test. JADA. 2004: 231-7
- Araujo M et al,. (2015) Meta-analysis of the effect of an essential oil-containing mouth rinse on gingivitis and plaque. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 146 (8): 610-622
- Fine DH et al., J Periodontology (2007);78(10:1935-42..
- Charles, C.H et al. Anticalculus efficacy of an antiseptic mouthrinse containing zinc chloride. JADA 2001. 132:95-99