“These 3 Mouthwashes Fail Testing, Including a Well-Known Brand”

The Importance of Mouthwash in Dental Care

Mouthwash is a common household item that serves as an effective ally in the prevention of cavities and dental issues.
However, it is essential to understand that mouthwash should not replace brushing or flossing.
Instead, it enhances oral hygiene, helping to prevent dental problems and reducing the frequency of dentist visits.
Regardless, an annual check-up is highly recommended.

Diverse Options in the Market

In pharmacies and supermarkets, a plethora of mouthwash brands is available, ranging from budget-friendly to premium options.
But what distinguishes one brand from another? A German study evaluated 27 different mouthwashes, yielding astonishing results: three well-known brands failed to meet standards.

Unsatisfactory Mouthwash Brands Identified

Do all commercially available mouthwashes effectively prevent cavities and plaque accumulation? Öko-Test conducted an evaluation covering 27 fluoride mouthwashes sourced from pharmacies and supermarkets, with prices ranging from €0.83 to €8.24 per half liter.
Among these, 13 were recommended by testers.

The effectiveness of fluoride mouthwash in cavity prevention is evident.
Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acids and bacteria.
Remarkably, mouthwash has been found to remove plaque more efficiently than mechanical cleaning with a toothbrush and floss.
Plaque develops from food particles, saliva, and bacteria, leading to cavities, gum inflammation, and periodontal disease.
Active ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride and essential oils such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptol aid in plaque removal.

However, not all active components in the tested mouthwashes convinced the evaluators.
Specific products like Listerine Cool Mint Mild, Lacalut Aktiv, and Parodontax Repair received an overall “unsatisfactory” rating due to various reasons.
Listerine and Parodontax contain the aggressive surfactant Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, which can irritate sensitive mucous membranes.
Lacalut features chlorhexidine, responsible for potential discoloration, mouth burning, and tartar formation.

Moreover, all three products contain PEG/PEG derivatives, increasing mucosal permeability to foreign substances.
Clearly, not all mouthwashes perform their intended role, and pricier options aren’t necessarily the best.
Interestingly, the evaluation recommended two of the more economical products: the antibacterial Dentabella by Norma (€0.83) and the antibacterial Dontodent from DM (€0.83).

Proper Usage of Mouthwash

Mouthwash should be used undiluted, preferably two times a day after brushing teeth.
Rinse thoroughly between teeth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out without ingesting or rinsing with water.

It is crucial to note that children aged 6 to 10 should use mouthwash only under supervision.
Additionally, fluoride-containing solutions are unsuitable for children under 6, as they may inadvertently swallow excessive amounts of fluoride.

For further reading, check out more about the effects of xylitol, commonly found in toothpaste and food products, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.