The Food and Drug Administration warned CVS, Walgreens and Johnson and Johnson to stop marketing mouthwash products with “unproven” claims that the products help remove plaque or prevent gum disease.  Specifically targeted were certain brands such as “Listerine Total Care Anticavity Mouthwash”.  According to the FDA statement “These mouth rinse products contain the active ingredient sodium fluoride.  The FDA has determined that sodium fluoride is effective in preventing cavities but has not found this ingredient to be effective in removing plaque or preventing gum disease.”  According to federal law, a company can’t market a product by claiming it is effective in treating a disease unless the claims have been reviewed and approved by the FDA.

Is there anything wrong with these mouth rinses?  No, not really.  This seem to be a matter of manufacturers realizing that people are becoming more aware of the dangers of gum disease and are attempting to market to those individuals.  Unfortunately, keeping healthy gum tissue requires more than a mouth rinse.

Keep your gums healthy by brushing properly (remember the 2 minute rule), flossing daily and visiting your dental hygienist on a regular basis.  Most hygiene visits are scheduled every six months but if your gums are not in tip-top condition you may be scheduled for more frequent recalls until the situation is under control.

If you have been relying on a mouth-wash to handle your periodontal health it’s time to contact StoneRidge Dental Care in Columbus, Ohio at 614-476-6696 to schedule your dental hygiene appointment.