I am sorry to say I used Listerine for several years. Listerine Advanced Antiseptic with Tartar Protection says it protects against gingivitis and tartar and should be used once every 12 hours. I did and I put up with the burning sensation all inside the mouth and around the gums when swishing this thinking I was helping my health. Uhh, no. My dentist, and 2 other dentists for different family members all happened to advice against Listerine because they said it is very harsh on gums. I ignored the advice then last Fall the bottle ran out. And I kept forgetting to replace it. For about 2 weeks I went without Listerine. And i noticed a strange thing: my gums were pinker (less red) and they seemed firmer, and my mouth didn't feel as sore. And, wait for it: I actually had far less tartar. I stopped using Listerine. Now, it's just brushing, and flossing, and the occasional salt water rinse and I am far better for it. I will not return to Listerine and I hope the oral cancer cautions echoed by some dental professionals for those who use burning mouthwashes longterm, will not come to pass for me.

savfromsb

Boston, MA