how effective are these dental practices?

Question

i've been told by my dentist to use listerine daily. i've also been told though that listerine is bad for your mouth unless it's diluted. i've also been given a gum massager to reduce bleeding. how often should i be using that? and is it really that important or is it a ploy to make me obsessed with my teeth?

Answer 1

Your dentist should know best. Perhaps he noticed something that you don't. Bleeding gums signify a problem. It sounds as if you have some sort of periodontal problem and he is advising you on how to correct it. If he really had bad intentions, he could have kept his mouth shut and waited for you to come running to him when your teeth start falling out.

Answer 2

ANNE,

THE TRUTH IS THAT LONG TERM USE OF ANY MOUTHWASH WHICH CONTAINS ALCOHOL DOES BEGIN TO CHANGE THE SURFACE EPITHELIUM OF THE MOUTH, LEADING TO POTENTIALLY PRE-CANCEROUS LEGIONS.