Regular brushing of teeth does not always eliminate bacteria and plaque in hard-to-reach places, which, in turn, begin to rot in the oral cavity.
All this causes an unpleasant odor and puts a person at risk of developing inflammatory processes (stomatitis, gingivitis and other pathologies, not counting caries).
For these purposes, special rinses are provided, which are used both after cleaning and after eating.
Keep in mind! One of the popular brands producing such a product is Listerine.
How does this mouthwash work and what does it contain? What are the advantages of Listerine mouthwash and how to use it correctly? As well as consumer reviews and reviews of popular Listerine lines.
Operating principle
For your information! Once in the oral cavity, the active components of Listerine begin to act as follows:
- They break down plaque accumulated on teeth, which serves as a source for the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Destroy the protective shell of bacteria.
- Prevents the development of putrefactive processes.
- Eliminates unpleasant odor and refreshes the oral cavity.
In order for the mouthwash to effectively attack accumulated bacteria and plaque, it must be used regularly (and preferably after brushing your teeth).
Listerine mouthwash ingredients
You should know! The composition of the medicinal product includes the following components:
- Eucalyptus essential oil has an antibacterial effect and helps eliminate swelling of the mucous membrane.
- Menthol essential oil has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect, actively combats unpleasant odors.
- Thymol essential oil is highly effective against yeast fungi and other pathogenic microorganisms, and also eliminates itching.
- Methyl salicylate - relieves pain and stimulates blood flow to the gums.
- Fluoride - saturates the oral mucosa with macro- and microelements.
- Zinc chloride - softens hard plaque.
Each of these components actively interacts with each other.
Due to this, a powerful cleansing and preventive effect is created.
As a foot scrub
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You can also make a foot scrub using a rinse to exfoliate dead skin. Mix one third cup Listerine, one third cup white vinegar and two cups white sugar. You can also add one tablespoon of coconut oil to soften and moisturize the skin and a few drops of essential oil for aroma (try to choose one that goes well with the smells of vinegar and Listerine). You can use this formula daily to keep your feet soft and looking perfect all the time.
Pros of using Listerine mouthwash
Stay up to date! The advantages of using this rinse aid are:
- The effectiveness of the product against different types of bacteria.
- No harmful substances in the composition.
- Painless removal of dental plaque.
- Possibility of use in childhood.
- Many varieties of Listerine brand products.
The only disadvantages allergic reactions , but they are extremely rare.
To combat foot fungus
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A mouth disinfectant successfully “treats” not only the head, but also the legs. If you suffer from foot fungus, mix equal parts warm water, white vinegar and Listerine in a basin or bathtub. Make sure there is enough water to completely submerge your feet. Sit in this solution for 45-60 minutes to be sure to kill any bacteria. After this procedure, your feet will become soft and exude a fresh aroma.
Indications for use
Note! Mouthwash " Listerine
» has a positive effect on the condition of the teeth and oral cavity in the following cases:
- When used as a preventive measure for dental diseases.
- For existing problems in the oral cavity (caries, stomatitis, gingivitis, glossitis, etc.).
- In case of persistent bad breath.
- In inflammatory processes of the oral cavity of bacterial or fungal etiology.
- In case of weakened and bleeding gums.
- To eliminate discomfort after surgery (tooth extraction, gum incision, etc.).
Therefore, due to its versatility, the medicinal liquid “Listerine” is equally good for use both for the treatment and for the prevention of dental diseases.
As a facial toner
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Mouthwash contains an antiseptic, so it can be an effective astringent for the face. Pour a small amount of sugar-free mouth freshener onto a cotton pad or facial tissue and apply it directly to your skin. You can either spot treat each pimple or spot, or, if necessary, wipe the entire face with the product.
see also
20 Ways to Use Hand Sanitizer You May Not Know About
Contraindications
It is worth noting! The following factors are contraindications to the use of Listerine:
- Individual intolerance to the active ingredients in the product.
- Increased dry mouth.
- Children's age (up to 6-12 years, depending on the type of rinse aid).
When using the product, side effects such as dry mouth and burning of the mucous membrane are possible.
Changes in the perception of taste for certain products and local allergic reactions are possible.
Instructions for use
According to the instructions, it is recommended to use the rinse aid as follows :
- Open the bottle and pour 20 ml of liquid into a glass (you can use the cap from this bottle).
- Rinse your mouth for 30 seconds and spit out the mouthwash without swallowing.
Reference! The product is recommended to be used 2 times a day (after thoroughly brushing your teeth). It does not need to be diluted with water.
If you have dental diseases, the number of procedures can be increased up to three times a day.
Children should only rinse their mouths under adult supervision .
If the product is accidentally swallowed, seek medical attention.
As a window cleaner
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Want to clean your windows but don't have any detergent on hand? Mouthwash can be a great alternative to traditional glass cleaners. Mix equal parts water and mouthwash in a spray bottle or wet a cloth and wipe down windows, glass countertops, mirrors and other interior features. The result should exceed all expectations - the glass will be crystal clear and streak-free.
Review of popular lines
The most common types of mouthwashes, produced under the Listerine brand:
Listerine Expert "Night Recovery"
The product remineralizes tooth enamel and protects against caries, and also actively fights the effects of food and drink.
Need to know! The advantage of using this mouthwash is that it works during sleep, saturating tooth enamel with minerals.
And all this thanks to the high fluoride content and Rapid Fusion technology, which increases the effectiveness of fluoride and helps restore and strengthen teeth while you sleep.
Among other things, the drug helps prevent caries and cleans up to 100% of the oral cavity , penetrating into hard-to-reach places and destroying pathogenic bacteria.
The mouthwash is available in 400 ml bottles and is sold in pharmacies and supermarkets. Price: 210 rubles.
Listerine Expert “Protection of gums and teeth”
This rinse has a double action :
- Provides healthy gums.
- Strengthens teeth.
The first results can be observed after 2 weeks of use.
The product has a pleasant taste of eucalyptus and mint, and is suitable for daily use.
For your information! The mouthwash is available in 250 ml bottles. Price: 280 rubles.
Listerine "Children's"
The product is intended for children over 6 years of age. Listerine “Children’s” cleans up to 100% of the oral cavity (even in places where a toothbrush cannot reach).
This liquid
strengthens tooth enamel, destroys pathogenic microorganisms and protects against caries.
The product has a pleasant berry taste, so children use it with pleasure.
Frequency of use: 2 times a day. Price: 270 rubles (250 ml).
Listerine "Green tea"
The product contains natural green tea extract, which fights gum inflammation and freshens breath.
Among other things, the product reduces the formation of plaque and strengthens the enamel .
Note! The drug has a pleasant refreshing taste of green tea.
The rinse is available in bottles of 250 and 500 ml, respectively, and the prices will be different: 210 rubles (250 ml) and 320 rubles (500 ml).
Listerine "Fresh Mint"
everyday oral hygiene
product The liquid has an antibacterial effect, prevents the formation of plaque, provides long-lasting fresh breath, and strengthens tooth enamel .
The drug is available in bottles of 250 and 500 ml. Price: 210 rubles (250 ml) and 320 rubles (500 ml).
Listerine Expert “Gum Protection”
The product helps prevent gum inflammation and bleeding, provides 24-hour protection against bacteria, ensures fresh breath and reduces the formation of plaque .
Keep in mind! At the same time, the drug does not upset the balance of oral microflora.
Price: 470 rubles (250 ml).
Listerine Total Care
The advantages of this type of liquid include the following properties:
- Prevents the formation of tartar.
- Supports gum health.
- Protects against caries.
- Helps maintain teeth whiteness.
- Has an antibacterial effect.
- Provides long-lasting protection against unpleasant odors.
Price: 270 rubles (250 ml) and 400 rubles (500 ml).
To fight fleas
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An alcohol-based mouthwash such as Listerine can penetrate fleas' shells, killing them in minutes. If these insects are infested in the house, then to get rid of the bloodsuckers, mix one part Listerine with two parts water in a spray bottle and spray this mixture throughout the house.
The freshener will also help if fleas attack your cat or dog. To rid your pet of fleas, pour equal parts shampoo and Listerine into a bowl or container.
Wash your pet with this mixture, not forgetting to apply it to areas where fleas accumulate, especially behind the ears and on the paws. Leave the animal in the shampoo for five minutes, then rinse and repeat if necessary.
Consumer reviews about use
Listerine mouthwash has mostly positive reviews. Here's what users write about this drug:
Svetlana, 32 years old.
Economical and very effective product, easy to use.
I want to tell you about one feature of this drug: unlike other similar products, it foams a lot.
Therefore, I use it in a smaller dosage than indicated in the instructions.
What else can be added - a pleasant taste, long-lasting fresh breath, elimination of minor problems with the gums (bleeding, inflammation, etc.).
In general, Listerine mouth rinse is completely worth its cost and I am pleased with the result.
Irina, 23 years old.
This is the first rinse that I feel benefits from.
Its obvious advantages include: a long-lasting feeling of cleanliness on the teeth, solving problems with the gums (for me they periodically became inflamed and bled a little).
However, during the first use, I literally experienced a state of shock.
It's all about the taste of the liquid: it resembles something between gasoline and kerosene (or so it seemed to me). But even after brushing my teeth, this taste did not disappear.
The disadvantages include a burning sensation in the mouth. Overall, I recommend the product for use.
results
- The analysis showed that in the group of men who used Listerine, gonococcus was detected on the pharyngeal surface 80% less often than in patients who used saline (odds ratio, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.07 - 0.72).
- Similar results were obtained when testing for gonococci in the tonsil area, with 57% (95% CI, 34% - 77%) positive among Listerine users compared with 90% of controls (P = 0.016).
- A test for Neisseria gonorrhoeae in the posterior oropharynx showed that this area was infected in 57% (95% CI, 34% - 77%) of men who used Listerine, and in 70% (95% CI, 46% - 88%) of them. saline group.
The researchers noted that the observation period for patients was short and it is possible that the effect of the rinse is not long-lasting. However, the results of a laboratory study conducted by them indicate a long-term effect of the drug. The authors also noted that larger studies are needed to confirm the results of this work.
Source:
Eric P. F. Chow et al. Sex Transm Infect. December 20, 2016.
conclusions
Summarizing the above, we can note the following:
- Listerine mouthwash is an effective and economical means for maintaining oral hygiene.
- Under the Listerine brand, different types of mouthwashes are produced (mint flavored, for children, green tea flavored, etc.). Therefore, you can choose a product according to your needs.
- The instructions for using this drug are simple and understandable even to a child. Use mouthwash 2 times a day after brushing your teeth. Under no circumstances should the product be swallowed or diluted with water.
- With regular use, Listerine will help strengthen tooth enamel and eliminate inflammation and bleeding gums. It will also help get rid of plaque and enjoy fresh breath every day.
Advantages
The key advantages of the Listerine line of mouthwashes include the following:
- carefully selected composition of components, eliminating many problems with the mucous membranes and teeth;
- effectiveness of the product in the fight against periodontal diseases;
- safety of the product for human health;
- a wide range of products allowing you to choose a product in accordance with a specific pathology of the oral cavity;
- Possibility of use by children.
In the video, watch the dentist’s opinion about the benefits and necessity of using the product.
