Mouthwash...Ok?

The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans freshened their breath by chewing eucalyptus leaves and cinnamon sticks.

There are two main kinds of mouthwash: therapeutic and cosmetic. Therapeutic rinses help prevent cavities, gingivitis, and other oral health problems. Cosmetic mouthwashes temporarily freshen breath.

Generally, mouthwashes are made of materials for strong flavor dilution, such as alcohol and water. The rest of the liquid contains antibacterial agents, flavorings, soaps, and dyes for color.

The popular mouthwash known as Listerine was first used as a surgical antiseptic by a doctor named Joseph Lister before it was commercialized as mouthwash.

Alcohol-based oral rinses are often used for other tasks, including combating foot fungus, sprucing up unkempt lawns, and cleaning computer screens, although there are no conclusive studies about their effectiveness.

Americans spend about $2 billion a year on dental products, including mouthwash.

A common use of mouthwash is to eliminate or mask bad breath; consistent bad breath is called "halitosis."

A 2010 market survey reported that only 44% of consumers bought the brand of mouthwash they most wanted; the others switched to less costly generics.

~ From WebMD ~