Listerine Tooth Defense Anti- Cavity Fluoride Rinse Review

Mouthwash and mouth rinse products offer an effective way to kill germs and freshen breath and there are many varieties available that not only perform these tasks- they also make many other promises to the consumer that all include improved oral health. One newer product that claims to fortify your teeth is Listerine Tooth Defense Anti- Cavity Fluoride Rinse, a product that strengthens teeth.

Mouth Rinse Commentary:
 
Listerine Tooth Defense Anti- Cavity Fluoride Rinse is purple in color and minty in flavor. Like other Listerine products, this one kills germs and freshen breath. But this product offers one other benefit: The ability to strengthen the teeth and thus help prevent cavities. Actually, Listerine offers many different products that go beyond the usual germ- killing capabilities of the original Listerine. The newer Listerine products each have something unique that they offer and Listerine Tooth Defense Anti- Cavity Fluoride Rinse sets itself apart from the other mouth rinses by its ability to strengthen the teeth, fight plaque above the gumline, and restore tooth enamel. These are certainly good qualities and I doubt that anyone wouldn't want a mouth runse that can make their teeth stronger. This, when I first heard about this product and it's lofty claims, I was curious enough to give it a try. I also wanted to know exactly what it contained that would aid in the strengthening of the teeth.

What I discovered is that the claims Listerine makes are true, but the reason they are true isn't because of any special ingredient. It is due to the addition of sodium fluoride to each bottle. Sodium fluroide is nothing special- it is the same ingredient found in fluoride toothpastes. So, is Listerine like toothpaste in liquid form? Yes and no. It does have fluoride, which has been shown to strengthen teeth. But it is not a substitute for brushing, as the manufacturer is quick to point out. In fact, it is recommended that Listerine Total Care Anti- Cavity Fluoride Rinse Mint Shield be used immediately following brushing, for the best effects.

Listerine recommends taking a small amount of this product in the mouth and swishing it around for about one minute. This is longer than most other mouth rinses recommend and it is easier said than done. The reason it isn't easy to accomplish is because of the alcohol burn. Once you reach the 30 second mark, the burning sensation will reach a point where it is almost too much to bear. Unless you use a timer and make a disciplined effort to hold the liquid in place, or are capable of handling the burn, you will not likely come even close to the one minute recommendation.  Once the burning sensation hits, you will be ready to spit the liquid out quickly.

Bottom Line Viewpoint:

Listerine Tooth Defense Anti- Cavity Fluoride Rinse is a good product and it does kill germs, freshen breath, and strengthen the teeth. The taste is a bit harsh, making it difficult to follow the manufacturer's instructions the way you should. One also needs to be careful not to swallow the liquid because it does, of course, contain sodium fluoride which can become toxic if consumed in large amounts. But all things considered, Listerine Total Care is still effective and it ranks as yet another quality oral care product from Listerine. It could be improved if the burn was reduced, but this product is still a good addition to your daily dental care routine.