Can I use Listerine in my Waterpik?

Asked by: Cordie Keebler  |  Last update: October 7, 2023
Score: 4.3/5 (40 votes)

Chlorhexidine and Listerine have been clinically tested for safe use in a water flosser, according to Waterpik, a leading brand water flosser. It is important to note that any time a solution other than water is used in your water flossing machine, make certain you thoroughly rinse the machine after use.

What can you put in a Waterpik besides water?

The Waterpik is for between teeth, not the outsides. Add two teaspoons of plain baking soda to a full reservoir of water (this gives you a saturated solution which is the required concentration to kill bacteria). You can put mouthwash in for flavor (a capful), but it is not antibacterial unless used undiluted.

Can you fill your water flosser with mouthwash?

4. Can I add mouthwash to my water flosser? We recommend that you use warm water because it is seen to be the most effective. However, if you wish to use mouthwash, mix a small amount with warm water and use.

Do dentists recommend using Listerine?

However, most dentists highly recommend adding mouthwash to your morning and evening routine. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions such as dry socket, tooth sensitivity, and xerostomia (aka dry mouth) may very well find mouthwash essential.

Why not to use Listerine mouthwash?

Conventional mouthwash is not nearly as helpful as it's been purported to be. It destroys the bacterial balance in your mouth, dries out the skin, causes imbalances in pH levels, worsens bad breath, may cause mouth ulcers and increase your risk for oral cancer, and it may contribute to the development of gingivitis.

How to Use The Waterpik - Dr. Nemeth Tutorial

26 related questions found

Is it OK to rinse with Listerine everyday?

In addition to brushing and flossing daily, using mouthwash everyday needs to become part of the routine to ensure optimal oral health. Mouthwash will further supplement the daily dental routine to prevent and/or reduce harmful oral bacteria while maintaining a fresh feel and smell to the mouth.

What was the Listerine mouthwash scandal?

In a landmark 1976 case, the FTC declared that the health claims were bogus and forced Warner-Lambert, its manufacturer at the time, to spend $10 million on ads that read, “Contrary to prior advertising, Listerine will not help prevent colds or sore throats or lessen their severity.” More recently, in 2005, a federal ...

What is the mouth rinse that dentists use?

Chlorhexidine Mouthwash

It is a broad spectrum antimicrobial with particular use against bacteria that cause gum disease. Dentists do sometimes employ chlorhexidine mouthwash to treat patients with gum disease. Studies have shown it can reduce inflammation caused by periodontal bacteria.

Does LISTERINE help with tooth inflammation?

Yes, applying a cotton ball soaked in regular Listerine on an infected tooth will relieve tooth pain. Listerine is about 27% alcohol, and alcohol numbs nerve endings.

What is the mouthwash the dentist gives you?

Chlorhexidine (Peridex) is a prescription medication that your dentist will prescribe you. Listerine is available over-the-counter. Although they are both used for gum health, they do not work exactly the same way. Your dentist will decide which mouthwash is best for you based on your needs.

What is the best thing to put in a water flosser?

Benefits of Adding Mouthwash to Water Flossers

Using standard mouthwash in a water flosser freshens the patient's breath, combats plaque build-up, removes food debris, and prevents cavities. As an added benefit, using fluoridated mouthwash will fortify the teeth's enamel.

What should I add to my water flosser?

Frey's recommendation: Add a capful of Listerine Whitening with warm water to your water flosser to help reverse gingivitis. Because of it's antibacterial properties, hydrogen peroxide releases oxygen that helps destroy bacteria which may help battle periodontal disease.

Can you use a Waterpik too much?

But, there are some caveats. For example, if you use your Waterpik more often than recommended by your dentist, or if you use a high-pressure setting in sensitive areas in the hopes of cleaning your teeth better, you could end up causing some harm.

Should I use Waterpik before or after brushing?

Should my patients use the Water Flosser before or after brushing? We recommend using the Water Flosser prior to toothbrushing: Removing food and debris enhances the effectiveness of both toothbrushing and toothpaste. Instructing patients to use it first improves compliance.

How many times a day should I use Waterpik?

Best Way to Use a Water Flosser

Use twice a day for optimal results. It would help if you brush twice daily, once with your regular or electric toothbrush and toothpaste, then again with your Waterpik water flosser. Some people prefer to complete their routine using mouthwash after brushing or rinsing.

Do I still have to floss if I use a Waterpik?

A Waterpik Shouldn't Replace Brushing or Flossing

Waterpiks can't remove plaque or stuck-on debris, so it's important to continue to floss and receive professional cleanings regularly.

What is the strongest natural antibiotic for tooth infection?

Strongest natural antibiotics for tooth infection
  1. Clove. Clove possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that have been widely studied and proven. ...
  2. Garlic. Garlic also acts as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. ...
  3. Turmeric. Turmeric is a common spice used in many kitchens. ...
  4. Warm salt water rinses. ...
  5. Ginger.

Can Listerine cure gum infection?

While LISTERINE® mouthwash products can help prevent early gum disease, they are not indicated to treat periodontitis.

Can Listerine restore tooth enamel?

Although toothpastes and mouthwashes can never “rebuild” teeth, they can contribute to this remineralization process. Remineralization introduces minerals, especially calcium, to the teeth. These minerals bond to the surface of the teeth and are drawn to weak points in the enamel.

Is hydrogen peroxide better than Listerine?

Unlike regular mouthwash, which destroys the balance of microbes in the mouth and often inflames, irritates or harms oral tissues, hydrogen peroxide mouthwash benefits the oral environment.

What is the pink mouthwash dentists use?

Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is an antimicrobial rinse often used to treat the beginning stages of gum disease. Chlorhexidine gluconate 0.12 percent is the generic name for an oral rinse that has the ability to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

What is the famous TikTok mouthwash?

Unsurprisingly, TikTok helped me discover TheraBreath, an internet-famous mouthwash that even dentists on the platform are raving about. When something has both consumer-approval and professional-approval, you can bet my wallet is getting pulled out.

What is the secret ingredient in Listerine?

Lister's work in turn inspired St. Louis-based doctor Joseph Lawrence to develop an alcohol-based formula for a surgical antiseptic which included eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, and thymol (its exact composition was a trade secret). Lawrence named his antiseptic "Listerine" in honor of Lister.

Why is Listerine so powerful?

Listerine contains four essential oils: eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicaylate. Eucalyptol comes from the eucalyptus tree and acts as an antibacterial and antifungal agent. Menthol features germ killing properties that help prevent the growth of bacteria in the mouth.