Mouthwash has become a component of oral hygiene routines worldwide, offering benefits that complement brushing and flossing.
In the battle for superior oral health, two brands stand out: Listerine Antiseptic and Crest Pro Health Advanced Mouthwash. Both have carved out significant niches in the oral care market, each boasting unique features and benefits.
Here, we’ll look into these two leading products, examining everything from their formula differences to their overall usefulness, to help you decide which to choose.
Quick Answer: Should I Choose Listerine or Crest Mouthwash?
Alcohol vs. Alcohol-Free: If you have a sensitive mouth, prefer a milder taste, or suffer from dry mouth, you may opt for an alcohol-free option like Crest Pro Health. For a more intense sensation and potentially stronger antibacterial action, you might choose an alcohol-containing mouthwash like Listerine.
CPC-Containing Mouthwashes: Most Crest mouthwash formulations contain CPC (Cetylpyridinium chloride). CPC is effective in reducing plaque and gingivitis, so if you prefer alcohol-free formulas, Crest with CPC is a viable option. Alternatively, if you are looking to avoid the side effects of CPC (which include a burning in the gums and minor staining for some people), Listerine may be a better option.
Taste Intensity: Listerine is known for a strong, intense taste which some find invigorating, while others may find it overwhelming. This is a result of the high alcohol concentration. Crest tends to have a milder flavor profile, which may be more comfortable for daily use.
Efficacy: Studies, including one comparing an alcohol-free 0.07% CPC rinse with a traditional essential oil (EO) rinse, have shown that the CPC rinse provides similar antiplaque and antigingivitis benefits without the alcohol content. This suggests that for those looking to avoid alcohol, an alcohol-free CPC-containing mouthwash like Crest can be just as effective as the alcohol-containing EO rinse like Listerine.
When choosing between Crest and Listerine, consider your personal oral health needs, taste preference, and sensitivity to mouthwash ingredients. Always consult with your dentist for a recommendation tailored to your specific oral health profile.
Product Profiles: Listerine vs. Crest
Listerine Antiseptic:
History and Brand Reputation: Listerine, with its storied past, has established itself as a staple in oral care since the 19th century, evolving from a surgical antiseptic to a trusted household brand for battling germs that cause bad breath.
Key Ingredients and Functions: It contains a potent combination of eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, and thymol essential oils, as well as 20%+ alcohol concentration, which work together to kill germs, reduce plaque, and freshen breath.
Flavors and Packaging Options: Listerine Antiseptic is available in several flavors, including Cool Mint, Fresh Burst, and Original.
Crest Pro Health Advanced Mouthwash:
Brand History and Market Presence: Crest, synonymous with innovation in dental care, has been a prominent figure since the mid-20th century, known for introducing fluoride in its products for cavity prevention.
Active Ingredients and Oral Health Benefits: Crest Pro Health Advanced Mouthwash boasts a multi-protection formula containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) for combating plaque and gingivitis without the burn of alcohol.
Variety of Flavors and Packaging: This mouthwash is offered in refreshing flavors like Clean Mint, clinically tested to help maintain a dentist-clean feeling.
Active Ingredients & Benefits
Listerine Antiseptic:
Active Ingredients: The signature antiseptic formula is a powerful blend of four essential oils: eucalyptol, menthol, methyl salicylate, and thymol, which are known for their strong antibacterial properties. Most Listerine varieties also contain 22% - 27% alcohol.
Benefits: Listerine claims to kill 99.9% of germs that lead to bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis, promoting healthier gums and fresher breath.
Evidence: Multiple clinical studies corroborate Listerine's effectiveness, showing a significant reduction in plaque and gingivitis with regular use compared to brushing alone.
Crest Pro Health Advanced Mouthwash:
Active Ingredients: Its active ingredient, cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), is a less aggressive but still effective antibacterial agent, which targets plaque-forming bacteria without the harshness of alcohol. CPC has proven to be effective in reducing plaque and calculus on the teeth.
Benefits: Crest Pro Health is marketed for its advanced formula that provides 12-hour protection against germs, even after eating and drinking, while also enhancing enamel strength and helping prevent cavities.
Evidence: Crest Pro Health has been clinically proven to reduce plaque and help prevent gingivitis, with studies highlighting its efficacy in improving oral health when used as part of a comprehensive oral care routine.
Alcohol Content and Oral Health Impact
Listerine Antiseptic:
Alcohol Content: Listerine contains a high percentage of alcohol, which serves as a solvent for its active ingredients and enhances their antibacterial effects.
Oral Health Impact: While effective for killing germs, the alcohol in Listerine can contribute to dry mouth in some individuals, which might lead to a decrease in saliva production, potentially increasing the risk of cavities and oral infections.
Crest Pro Health Advanced Mouthwash:
Alcohol-Free: Crest Pro Health is formulated without alcohol, aiming to provide the benefits of a mouthwash without the burning sensation and dryness associated with alcohol-containing products.
Advantages: The absence of alcohol means a more pleasant rinsing experience and is often better for individuals with sensitive mouths or who are prone to dry mouth. It is also beneficial for maintaining a balanced oral microbiome, which is essential for overall oral health.
Impact on Oral Health:
Alcohol-Based Mouthwashes: While effective against oral bacteria, alcohol-based mouthwashes have been scrutinized for their potential link to oral dryness and irritation.
Alcohol-Free Mouthwashes: They are increasingly recommended for their gentler approach and their ability to maintain oral health without the side effects associated with alcohol.
User Experience & Efficacy
Listerine Antiseptic:
User Reviews: Listerine is often praised for its intense freshness and the clean feeling it leaves, with many users feeling confident about its germ-killing capabilities. However, some report discomfort due to the strong burning sensation.
Efficacy: Users frequently report reduced plaque and a noticeable improvement in gum health. Listerine's efficacy in reducing bad breath is also highly rated among users.
Side Effects: While effective, some users experience dry mouth or irritation due to the high alcohol content. Others find the taste and sensation too intense for regular use.
Crest Pro Health Advanced Mouthwash:
User Reviews: Users appreciate the milder taste and the absence of alcohol, which makes for a more comfortable rinsing experience. Many note improvements in gum health without the burn.
Efficacy: Reviews often mention satisfaction with the mouthwash's ability to maintain fresh breath and clean feeling throughout the day.
Side Effects: Fewer complaints about dry mouth or irritation are reported compared to alcohol-based mouthwashes. However, some users question its strength due to the lack of a burning sensation.
Variants & Specialized Formulations
Listerine Variants:
Alcohol-Free Options: Listerine's Zero Alcohol line is recognized for providing the same germ-killing benefits without the intense burning sensation, catering to those who find traditional formulas too harsh.
Specialized Formulas: Listerine offers a range of products tailored for specific needs, like the Total Care for all-around oral health, and Smart Rinse for children, with fluoride to support enamel health.
Crest Variants:
Whitening Mouthwashes: Crest's 3D White mouthwash variant targets surface stains on teeth, promoting a whiter smile alongside its antibacterial properties.
Sensitive Formula: The Pro Health Advanced line includes options for sensitive teeth, providing gentle care without sacrificing germ protection.
Specialized Formulations:
Dry Mouth Formulations: Both brands offer solutions designed to help those with dry mouth, often formulated with special ingredients to stimulate saliva production.
Whitening Purposes: Whitening mouthwashes from both Listerine and Crest include ingredients that help lift stains and brighten teeth, with many users reporting visible results over time.
Sensitive Teeth: Mouthwashes designed for sensitive teeth typically contain potassium nitrate, which helps to soothe nerve endings and reduce pain with consistent use.
Making the Right Choice
Individual Needs: Consider whether you have specific issues like sensitivity, dry mouth, or a preference for a certain taste or sensation when choosing your mouthwash.
Oral Health Goals: If combating bacteria is your priority, Listerine's strong antiseptic properties might be beneficial; if you're seeking a gentler daily rinse, Crest's mild formula could be preferable.
Consultation: Don't hesitate to ask your dentist for recommendations, especially if you have ongoing dental concerns.
Trial and Error: Sometimes, the best way to determine the right mouthwash is through personal experience. Try both brands and see which one meets your expectations in terms of comfort, efficacy, and enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
While some may prioritize the antiseptic strength of Listerine, others might lean towards the gentle, alcohol-free formulation of Crest for daily use. It's also worth considering the broader spectrum of options offered by both brands, including specialized formulas that target specific oral health concerns, and even natural solutions like salt water or peroxide.
FAQs
Is Listerine or Crest Pro-Health better?
The choice between Listerine and Crest Pro-Health depends on individual preferences and needs. Listerine is known for its strong antiseptic properties, while Crest Pro-Health is alcohol-free and may be better for those with sensitive mouths. If you want to avoid alcohol, use Crest or an alcohol-free Listerine product. If you want to avoid CPC, use Listerine.
Is Listerine better than other mouthwashes?
Listerine is a well-established brand known for its effectiveness in killing bacteria and promoting oral health. However, whether it is better depends on the specific needs and reactions of the user, as well as what they are looking to get out of their mouthwash. In recent years, we have become more aware of the downsides of alcohol-containing mouthwash (most Listerine varieties have 20%+ alcohol content).
What is the most effective mouthwash?
The most effective mouthwash is one that addresses your particular oral health concerns, whether it's fighting bacteria, reducing plaque, freshening breath, or caring for sensitive teeth. It should also have clinical backing for its claims. Ultimately, there is no such thing as a “most effective mouthwash,” and many dentists and researchers actually recommend no mouthwash, at all.
How effective is Crest mouthwash?
Crest mouthwashes are effective for a range of oral health needs, including cavity prevention, gum care, and teeth whitening. Its effectiveness is backed by research and positive user experiences. For cavity prevention, you should choose a fluoride-containing product. For teeth whitening, choose a Crest mouthwash that is specifically formulated for whitening.
What works better than Listerine?
Whether a mouthwash works better than Listerine will vary by individual and their specific oral health goals. Some may find that alcohol-free options or mouthwashes with different active ingredients work better for their needs, which is why options like Crest Pro Health Advanced and TheraBreath have become very popular in recent years.
Which mouthwash kills the most bacteria?
Mouthwashes with antiseptic properties, such as those containing cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), chlorhexidine, or essential oils, are known to be effective in killing bacteria. Listerine, for example, which contains essential oils, has been shown to kill a significant amount of oral bacteria.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.