- Abstract -

Periodontal disease continues to be a major challenge for dentists and a concern for patients. Periodontitis can be prevented, but once it is present it can be controlled but not eliminated. In present, it is demonstrated that accumulation of bacterian plaque and inflammation of periodontal tissue are strongly linked (1). Patients play an important role in controlling the oral microbial biofilm that is essential to the initiation and progression of periodontal disease. Studies show us that periodontal disease can be controlled by having a personal correct daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing alone is not sufficient to control plaque. This must be supplemented by interdental cleaning (flossing, interdental brush) and, also, by using of antiseptic mouthwashes (2).
Common antiseptics in mouthwashes include: essential oils, chlorhexidine, triclosan, iodine. Among these, Listerine (essential oil-containing mouthrinse) has become a brand after over 114 years of using.

Key words: oral health, essential oil-containing mouthrinse, plaque control.