Listerine for Gum Disease

The University of Maryland Medical Center calls gum disease a "silent disease" that can attack the gums and destroy bone without any obvious symptoms. It starts out as gingivitis and develops into a condition called periodontitis, often without any pain. Fortunately, dentists can diagnose gum disease, and there are ways for patients to prevent it. One of the most simple ways is by using Listerine mouthwash.

Effects

• Research has shown that Listerine mouthwash has a powerful effect on gum disease. The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) said that rinsing with Listerine twice a day reduces plaque gingivitis as effectively as using dental floss once a day. The mouthwash reduced plaque between teeth by 20 percent and cut down gingivitis (an early form of gum disease) by 11 percent. These results mirrored a previous study in the American Journal of Dentistry, which also confirmed Listerine's effectiveness at fighting plaque and gingivitis, which helps prevent the development of more severe gum disease.

Function

• The University of Maryland Medical Center says that Listerine mouthwash is effective at preventing gum disease because of its antimicrobial ingredients, including essential oils. These ingredients cause a burning sensation in the mouth that most users learn to tolerate over time. Listerine PocketPak strips do not contain the same ingredients and have not been shown to have any effect on gum disease. The medical center says that the only other ingredient proven to be as effective as Listerine's formula is chlorhexidine, which is found in Peridex or PerioGard mouthwash.

Use

• In order to be effective at preventing gum disease, Listerine must be used properly. In the studies, participants used it twice a day for at least 30 seconds at each session. The mouthwash should be used consistently, without skipping any days, to get the maximum benefits.

Benefits

• Medical News Today says that 90 percent of dentists report that the majority of their patients do not floss their teeth regularly. Less than 25 percent of Americans believe they would get an "A" grade for their oral hygiene routine from their dentist, and 42 percent believe they would get a "C" or lower. Dentists said that 68 percent of their patients claimed they don't floss because they are too tired or don't have enough time. Using Listerine mouthwash might be perceived as easier and more convenient for these people. Instead of going through a manual process, they can simply swish liquid in their mouths for less than a minute when they wake up and before they go to bed.

Warning

• Many dentists say that even though Listerine is more effective than flossing, using dental floss every day should still be part of a good oral hygiene routine. Medical News Today reports that 74 percent of dentists surveyed felt that patients should combine Listerine mouthwash with daily flossing. Patients should also have a professional cleaning at their dentist's office every six months.