Product Review:Listerine Agent Cool Blue Plaque Detecting Rinse

What this product claims to do:
• Agent Cool Blue helps you find plaque so you can brush better and have fun while you're doing it.
• Tints Plaque for better brushing

My experience with this product:

After watching a television commercial for Listerine Agent Cool Blue Plaque Detecting Rinse, my six year old son just had to have it. He loved that he could use it and see the spots where he needed to brush better, by seeing the blue spots. He couldn't wait to use it!

While shopping at a local store, I saw Agent Cool Blue bottles on the end-cap of an aisle. The cost was about $4.50. I thought that was a bit expensive, but well worth it if it can get my son this excited about brushing his teeth! I purchased the 16.9oz size bottle in 'Bubble Blast' flavor. As soon as I got home, I took it out of the bag to show my son. His eyes lit up with excitement! We went straight to the bathroom to try it out.

I took of the protective wrap and squeezed the bottle. The product filled the exact amount to be used at the top. My son swished it around his mouth for 30 seconds, just like the directions said. He spit it out and got on his tip toes to look at his teeth in the mirror. It was nothing like the commercial! The boy in the commercial had a few blue spots, only on his teeth, presumably where his plaque was. My son, however, had a blue tongue, teeth, gums, and lips. I decided to try it myself and got the same results. This made me think…either we both had plaque-filled mouths, or the product didn't work. I had two more family members try it out, and still, the results looked like lollipop-stained mouths.

The blue color did go away once we brushed our teeth and then rinsed. Some of the product got on the countertop. I wiped it away immediately with no staining. Here's a little hint: if you do decide to try this product, there's a statement on the label. It says, "Blue tint may discolor fabrics or materials, but in most cases can be cleaned within one day with water or commonly available household cleaners."

My opinion of the product:

Overall, I believe Listerine Agent Cool Blue Plaque Detecting Rinse is not worth purchasing. After my family and I used this product, I disagree with what the product claims to do. It did not tint or help find plaque. But, in their defense, one claim may have been true…my son did seem to have fun while he was doing it.