Listerine and Scope are two of the most popular mouthwash brands on the market.
Both are known for their ability to freshen breath and improve oral hygiene, but there are some key differences between the two that consumers should be aware of.
In this article, we will explore the differences between Listerine and Scope and help you determine which one may be better for your needs.
One of the primary differences between Listerine and Scope is their active ingredients.
Listerine contains essential oils such as eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, and methyl salicylate, which work together to kill bacteria and freshen breath. Scope, on the other hand, contains cetylpyridinium chloride, which is an antiseptic that helps kill bacteria in the mouth.
While both mouthwashes are effective at improving oral hygiene, the active ingredients in each product work in slightly different ways.
History of Listerine
Listerine is a brand of antiseptic mouthwash that has been around for over a century. It was first developed in 1879 by Dr. Joseph Lawrence, a chemist in St. Louis, Missouri.
Originally marketed by the Lambert Pharmacal Company, which later became Warner-Lambert, Listerine was named after Joseph Lister, who pioneered antiseptic surgery at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary in Scotland.
The original formula for Listerine was developed as a surgical antiseptic, but it was later marketed as a mouthwash.
The formula contained a combination of essential oils, including thyme, eucalyptus, and wintergreen, as well as alcohol. The product was marketed as a cure for bad breath, and it quickly became popular among consumers.
Over the years, Listerine has undergone several changes in its formula and marketing. In the 1920s, the company began to market the product as a cure for dandruff, and in the 1950s, it was marketed as a cure for the common cold.
Today, Listerine is still marketed as a mouthwash, and it is available in a variety of flavors and formulations.
Despite its long history, Listerine has faced some controversy over the years. In the 1970s, the company was sued by the Federal Trade Commission for making false claims about the effectiveness of the product in preventing colds and sore throats.
The case was settled, and Listerine was required to include a disclaimer on its packaging stating that the product had not been shown to prevent colds or sore throats.
History of Scope
Scope is a mouthwash brand that was introduced in 1966 by Procter & Gamble. It was the first mouthwash to use mint as a flavoring agent, which quickly made it popular among consumers.
The original formula contained only four ingredients, including water, alcohol, flavoring, and a sweetener.
Over the years, Scope has undergone several changes in its formula and packaging. In the 1980s, Procter & Gamble introduced new flavors, such as cinnamon and peppermint, to the product line.
In the 1990s, Scope was reformulated to include fluoride, which helped to prevent tooth decay.
In the early 2000s, Scope introduced a new line of mouthwash products, including Scope Outlast and Scope Dual-Blast, which promised longer-lasting freshness and a more intense flavor.
While Scope is known for its breath-freshening properties, it is important to note that it is not designed to kill bacteria or prevent gum disease.
Scope is a cosmetic breath freshener that reduces the amount of bad breath germs. It can be used more frequently throughout the day to keep your mouth minty fresh, but does not kill as much bacteria as Listerine.
Overall, Scope is a great basic mouthwash, due to its higher sugar content it won’t fight off bacteria as well as Listerine.
However, it can be a good addition to a daily oral hygiene routine to keep your breath fresh and your mouth feeling clean.
Key Ingredients in Listerine
Listerine is a popular mouthwash brand that has been around for more than 100 years. It is known for its strong taste and ability to kill bacteria in the mouth.
Here are some of the key ingredients in Listerine and their benefits:
- Alcohol: Listerine contains a high concentration of alcohol, typically around 21.6% to 26.9%. Alcohol has antiseptic properties and helps to kill bacteria in the mouth. However, it can also be drying and irritating to some people.
- Eucalyptol: This ingredient has antiseptic properties and is commonly used in dental products. It can help to freshen breath and kill bacteria in the mouth.
- Menthol: Menthol is a natural ingredient that gives Listerine its signature cool and refreshing taste. It can also help to freshen breath and soothe sore throats.
- Thymol: Thymol is another antiseptic ingredient that is commonly used in dental products. It can help to kill bacteria in the mouth and prevent gingivitis.
Listerine also contains other ingredients such as water, flavoring, and coloring agents. It is important to note that Listerine is not recommended for children under the age of 12 due to its high alcohol content.
Overall, Listerine is known for its ability to kill bacteria in the mouth and prevent gingivitis. However, its high alcohol content may not be suitable for everyone.
It is important to read the label and consult with a dentist or doctor before using Listerine or any other dental product.
Key Ingredients in Scope
Scope is a popular mouthwash brand that is known for its refreshing taste and ability to kill germs that cause bad breath. The mouthwash contains a variety of active ingredients that work together to freshen breath, kill bacteria, and promote oral health.
One of the key ingredients in Scope is cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC). CPC is an antiseptic that kills the bacteria that cause bad breath and gum disease. It is also effective at reducing plaque buildup on teeth and gums.
Another important ingredient in Scope is menthol. Menthol is a natural compound that gives the mouthwash its refreshing taste and cooling sensation. It also has antibacterial properties that help to kill germs in the mouth.
Scope also contains water, alcohol, and flavorings. The alcohol in the mouthwash helps to kill bacteria and viruses, while the flavorings give the mouthwash its pleasant taste and smell.
Overall, the combination of active ingredients in Scope makes it an effective mouthwash for freshening breath, killing germs, and promoting oral health.
While there are other mouthwash brands on the market, Scope is a popular choice for many people due to its refreshing taste and ability to kill germs that cause bad breath.
Flavor Varieties of Listerine
Listerine offers a range of flavors that cater to different preferences. Here are some of the most popular Listerine flavors:
Original
The original Listerine flavor is a classic and has been around for over a century. It has a strong, medicinal taste that some people find overpowering, but others appreciate for its effectiveness in killing germs and freshening breath.
Cool Mint
Cool Mint is one of the most popular Listerine flavors. It has a refreshing taste that is not too strong, making it a good choice for those who find the original flavor too intense. Cool Mint is also a good option for those who want a mouthwash that leaves a pleasant aftertaste.
Freshburst
Freshburst is another popular Listerine flavor. It has a sweet and minty taste that is less intense than the original flavor.
Freshburst is a good option for those who want a mouthwash that is gentle on their teeth and gums but still effective in killing germs and freshening breath.
Overall, Listerine offers a range of flavors that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a strong, medicinal taste or a more gentle flavor, there is a Listerine flavor that will suit your needs.
Flavor Varieties of Scope
Scope is a popular brand of mouthwash that offers a variety of flavors to choose from. Here are some of the most popular flavor varieties of Scope:
Original Mint
The original mint flavor of Scope is a classic and has been around for many years. It has a refreshing minty taste that leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh. This flavor is perfect for those who prefer a traditional mint flavor.
Outlast Long Lasting Mint
The Outlast Long Lasting Mint flavor of Scope is designed to provide long-lasting freshness. It has a cool mint flavor that lasts for up to five times longer than brushing alone.
This flavor is perfect for those who want to keep their breath fresh throughout the day.
Cinnamon
The cinnamon flavor of Scope is a unique and spicy alternative to traditional mint flavors. It has a warm and spicy taste that is perfect for those who want to mix things up. This flavor is perfect for those who love cinnamon and want to try something different.
Overall, Scope offers a variety of flavors to choose from, each with its own unique taste and benefits. Whether you prefer a traditional mint flavor or something a little more spicy, Scope has a flavor that is perfect for you.
Effectiveness of Listerine
Listerine is a popular mouthwash brand that is known for its effectiveness in fighting bad breath and reducing plaque and gingivitis.
It contains essential oils, such as eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol, that have antibacterial properties. These oils work together to kill the bacteria that cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, Listerine was found to be more effective than other mouthwashes in reducing plaque and gingivitis.
The study concluded that Listerine was able to reduce plaque by up to 56% and gingivitis by up to 28% when used twice daily for six months.
Listerine is available in various flavors, including Cool Mint, Freshburst, and Original. It is also available in alcohol-free versions for those who prefer a gentler mouthwash.
It is important to note that Listerine should not replace regular brushing and flossing. It should be used as a supplement to oral hygiene practices. Additionally, Listerine should not be used by children under the age of 12 without the supervision of an adult.
Overall, Listerine is a highly effective mouthwash that can help improve oral health when used as part of a regular oral hygiene routine.
Effectiveness of Scope
Scope mouthwash is known for its ability to freshen breath and kill bacteria in the mouth. It contains cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) as its active ingredient, which is a powerful antiseptic that kills germs that cause bad breath and gum disease.
Scope tends to incorporate more sugar and less alcohol into their mouthwashes when compared to competitor’s products.
While this is not necessarily a bad thing, sugar causes bad breath while alcohol helps to kill bacteria. However, Scope’s CPC formula is still effective in killing germs and freshening breath.
Scope is also available in a variety of flavors, including mint, cinnamon, and even bacon. This makes it a popular choice for those who want a mouthwash that not only freshens breath but also tastes good.
In terms of effectiveness, Scope is a good choice for those who want a mouthwash that kills germs and freshens breath. However, it may not be as effective as Listerine in terms of killing bacteria due to its lower alcohol content.
Side Effects of Listerine
Listerine is a popular mouthwash brand that has been in use for over a century. While it is generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential side effects to be aware of.
1. Dry Mouth
One of the most common side effects of Listerine is dry mouth. This is because the alcohol in the mouthwash can cause a decrease in saliva production. Saliva is important for maintaining oral health because it helps to neutralize acid and wash away food particles and bacteria.
If you experience dry mouth after using Listerine, it is recommended that you drink plenty of water and consider using a saliva substitute.
2. Staining of Teeth
Listerine contains a high concentration of alcohol, which can cause staining of the teeth over time. This is especially true for people who use the mouthwash frequently or for extended periods of time.
To minimize staining, it is recommended that you use Listerine in moderation and follow up with a thorough brushing and flossing routine.
3. Irritation of Oral Tissues
Some people may experience irritation of the gums, tongue, or other oral tissues after using Listerine.
This is typically due to the alcohol content of the mouthwash, which can be harsh on sensitive tissues. If you experience irritation, it is recommended that you discontinue use of the mouthwash and consult with your dentist or healthcare provider.
4. Interaction with Medications
Listerine has been known to interact with certain medications, particularly those that are used to treat high blood pressure.
If you are taking medications, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using Listerine to ensure that there are no potential interactions.
Overall, Listerine is a safe and effective mouthwash for most people. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and to use the mouthwash in moderation.
If you experience any adverse reactions after using Listerine, it is recommended that you discontinue use and consult with your dentist or healthcare provider.
Side Effects of Scope
Scope mouthwash is generally considered safe to use, but like any other product, it can cause side effects in some people.
Here are some of the potential side effects of using Scope mouthwash:
- Staining: Some users have reported that Scope mouthwash can cause temporary staining of the teeth and tongue. This is usually caused by the dyes used to give the mouthwash its color. The staining is generally harmless and will go away on its own over time.
- Dry Mouth: Scope mouthwash contains alcohol, which can cause dryness in the mouth. This can be uncomfortable for some people, especially those who already suffer from dry mouth. If you experience dry mouth after using Scope mouthwash, you may want to switch to a different brand or talk to your dentist about other options.
- Burning Sensation: Some users have reported a burning sensation in the mouth after using Scope mouthwash. This is usually caused by the alcohol content of the mouthwash. If you experience a burning sensation after using Scope, you may want to try diluting the mouthwash with water or switching to a different brand.
- Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, some people may be allergic to one or more of the ingredients in Scope mouthwash. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop using the mouthwash immediately and seek medical attention.
Overall, Scope mouthwash is a safe and effective product that can help improve oral hygiene. However, if you experience any side effects after using Scope, you should stop using the product and talk to your dentist about other options.
Price Comparison
When it comes to price, there is a slight difference between Listerine and Scope. On average, Listerine is slightly more expensive than Scope per fluid ounce.
Listerine typically comes in bottles ranging from 250 ml to 1.5 liters, with prices ranging from $4 to $10. Scope, on the other hand, comes in bottles ranging from 250 ml to 1 liter, with prices ranging from $3 to $7.
It’s worth noting that prices may vary depending on the store and location. Some stores may offer discounts or promotions on certain mouthwash brands, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices before making a purchase.
Overall, while Listerine may be slightly more expensive than Scope, the price difference is relatively small and may not be a significant factor in the decision-making process for most consumers.
Consumer Reviews
When it comes to choosing between Listerine and Scope, many consumers turn to online reviews to help them make a decision. Both brands have a loyal following, but there are some differences in the way people perceive them.
Listerine is the overall stronger choice. It is considered by many to be the gold standard of mouthwash, thanks to its powerful formula that kills germs and freshens breath.
Scope, on the other hand, is a great basic mouthwash, but due to its higher sugar content, it won’t be as effective in preventing cavities and gum disease.
Scope offers better breath freshening properties compared to Listerine. Scope’s mint flavor is less intense than Listerine’s, making it a better option for those who find Listerine too harsh.
When it comes to choosing between these two brands, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the strong, medicinal taste of Listerine, while others prefer the milder taste of Scope.
It’s important to note that both brands offer solid cleaning ability and are relatively affordable, with both Scope and Listerine products available on Amazon.
Overall, it’s important to choose a mouthwash that works best for your individual needs and preferences. Reading consumer reviews can be a helpful tool in making an informed decision.
Conclusion
In summary, both Listerine and Scope are effective mouthwashes that can improve oral hygiene by reducing bacteria and freshening breath. However, they have some differences that may make one more suitable for certain individuals.
Listerine is known for its strong, intense flavor and its ability to reduce gum disease and bleeding. It contains essential oils such as eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol, which have antimicrobial properties.
Listerine also contains a high alcohol content, which can be drying to the mouth and cause a burning sensation for some users. It is recommended to use Listerine no more than twice per day.
On the other hand, Scope has a milder taste and is less intense than Listerine. It contains cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC), which is a milder antimicrobial agent compared to the essential oils found in Listerine.
Scope also has a lower alcohol content, which may make it more suitable for individuals with sensitivity to alcohol.
In terms of price, Scope is generally less expensive than Listerine, but this may vary depending on the size and type of mouthwash purchased.
Ultimately, the choice between Listerine and Scope comes down to personal preference and individual needs.
Both mouthwashes can effectively reduce bacteria and freshen breath, but Listerine may be more suitable for individuals with gum disease or bleeding, while Scope may be more suitable for those with sensitivity to alcohol.