Mouthwash question

I'm a year into orthodontics now....and have been doing the best dental hygiene I can, using pre-rinse, proxy brushing, regular brushing, flossing, and a fluoride mouthwash.  The fluoride mouthwash is what I wanted to ask about.  I've been using Listerine Defense, but I find that it is too strong...I've read that you shouldn't water down any fluoride mouthwash...is that true?  Is there any other mouthwash that you would recommend?  I have small areas of decalcification (many years old), and I want to keep the enamel as strong as possible.

[Jerome Bogin, D.D.S.]

I would try the Crest Pro-Health.

[Jordy]

I would like to confirm what the Dr. said.  I recently started using Crest Pro-Health and I LOVE it!!!!  I never have used mouthwash regularly in my life, because I always hated the taste and stinging.  My last hygenist recommended I start using moutwash to help keep down tartar buildup at my gumline that she found on a few teeth.  I was really resistant.  She also told me to water down Listerine, but like you, didn't think that would be effective.  I just didn't want to swish burning alcohol around in my mouth.  So while shopping one day I discovered Crest Pro-Health and saw that it was supposed to have all the same benefits as Listerine but without the alcohol (I also have tried other non-alcohol rinses which were HORRIBLE.)

I haven't looked back!  It is WONDERFUL, my teeth are extra shiny and clean with no hint of buildup anywhere anymore, and my mouth always feels great.  The only issue was when I was using "mint" flavor (the blue) I felt that there was an odd aftertaste that was a little annoying.  I switched to wintergreen (the green) and that is no longer an issue.

Buy youself a small bottle and give it a shot!