Dud of the Month: Listerine "Less Intense" Vanilla Mint Mouthwash

I can still picture the bottle of original Listerine that always sat by the sink in the bathroom, used daily by my Mom and Dad. As I got older and that whole killing germs, plaque, and bad breath became important to me, I opted for the peppermint flavored Listerine mouthwash, hoping a minty flavor would cut some of the burning sensation that this mouthwash is notorious for. (The more it burns, the harder it’s working??)

While I do put some faith in the whole “no pain, no gain” adage, a mouthwash that makes my eyes water is a bit too much to take each night. When I saw Listerine had created a new Vanilla Mint “flavor” that promised to be less intense, I decided I’d give it a shot.

Hmmm.

This might be less intense to someone who thinks “intense” means sky diving, bungee jumping, or getting a weekly tattoo. For little old me though, this Vanilla Mint is just as intense – if not more – than the peppermint flavor I remember. It’s a double edge sword really. I don’t want plaque build-up or gingivitis, but I also don’t like the sensation that my mouth is always on fire. Know of some great, truly less intense mouthwash brands that do the trick? The Pink Mixer would love to hear about them. As soon as she’s done wiping these tears of pain from her eyes…

Average Price: $7.00/50 oz.
Rating: 1 out of 5